Nunavut, Manitoba extend agreement
Memorandum of understanding calls for co-operation in culture, clean energy, health and education
Michele LeTourneau
Northern News Services
Saturday, November 13, 2015
WINNIPEG
The premiers of Nunavut and Manitoba signed off on an agreement to extend a five-year memorandum of understanding which includes the continued exploration of a transmission line between Manitoba and Nunavut, the possibility of a winter road and the development of improved trade through an Arctic gateway.
Nunavut Premier Peter Taptuna, left, and Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger sign a memorandum of understanding extension between Manitoba and Nunavut for trade, energy and culture Nov. 19 at the Winnipeg Art Gallery. Looking on, back row, from left are Winnipeg Art Gallery director and CEO . Stephen Borys, Nunavut Culture and Heritage Minister George Kuksuk, Manitoba Aboriginal Affairs Minister Eric Robinson and Manitoba Tourism, Culture, Heritage, Sport and Consumer Protection Minister Ron Lemieux. - photo courtesy of Government of Manitoba
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The agreement, signed Nov. 19 in Winnipeg, ensures future collaboration on a number of topics, including health policy and program information sharing, and exploration of clean energy alternatives, stated a joint news release.
"Nunavut and Manitoba share more than a border -- we share family, cultural, trade and transportation ties," stated Nunavut Premier Peter Taptuna. "We are committed to working with our neighbours to enhance opportunities to Nunavummiut, and this memorandum of understanding helps strengthen co-operation in a number of key areas."
Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger stated there are several common goals between the two jurisdictions, such as the protection of the environment, improved health care and the push for clean energy.
"We look forward to further strengthening this partnership because by working together, we can both become stronger," stated Selinger.
The cultural aspect of the agreement will see the Winnipeg Art Gallery become home to thousands of pieces of fine art from Nunavut. The gallery is to develop special programming and educational opportunities through the display of the works. Each government will provide up to $500,000 to support the research, documentation, and exhibition of this artwork.
"The Government of Nunavut has an incredible collection and the Winnipeg Art Gallery is pleased to provide it with a temporary home," stated gallery director and CEO Stephen Borys. "Through in-house and touring exhibitions, we look forward to sharing these works with more people."
The two jurisdictions also committed to strengthening ties through education, sporting and cultural activities.
