Iqaluit (Mar 24/03) - The federal government has committed $27.6 million annually for the Food Mail program for the coming year. That's $12 million more than was committed in 1996.

Nancy Karetak-Lindell, Liberal MP for Nunavut, made the announcement on March 17 on behalf of the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs (DIAND).

The initiative will allow nutritious perishable foods to continue to be shipped at reduced rates to Northern communities. The program is designed to promote healthier eating.

As well, in response to the Dec. 2002 auditor general's report, DIAND is seeking additional funds to maintain current food postage rates.

The department is also working with Canada Post to implement new food handling guidelines they hope will improve food quality.