NDP MP Lori Idlout urges Liberals to approve the Nunavut Land Use Plan, says delays will cause setbacks

OTTAWA – On Friday, NDP MP Lori Idlout (Nunavut) wrote to the Minister of Northern Affairs, Dan Vandal, urging his government to approve the recommended Nunavut Land Use Plan (NLUP) for finalization.

The NLUP will give Inuit and Indigenous peoples more decision-making power over their natural resources projects in Nunavut.

“Inuit have spoken clearly and consistently that they want more say over their land and what kind of projects should happen,” said Idlout. “Further delays will only cause disagreements and setbacks to our community. It's important the government acts now."

In addition, the implemented NLUP means Inuit and other Indigenous peoples will have a pathway to free, prior, and informed consent regarding the land and create good-paying jobs for the community with new projects.

“Approving the NLUP will help ensure Inuit can use and protect their cultural activities, such as fishing, and the environment while moving towards economic independence,” added Idlout. “The NLUP represents a difficult balance between safeguarding what is most precious to Inuit – the land and its biodiversity – with industrial development. The time to strike that balance is now.”