Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, President of the Republic of Croatia
April 9, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with Croatian President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović.
Prime Minister Trudeau congratulated President Grabar-Kitarović on becoming Chair of the Council of Women World Leaders, a highly prestigious organization of current and former women Presidents and Prime Ministers.
The two leaders also discussed relations with China. Prime Minister Trudeau raised the cases of Canadians arbitrarily detained in China, and stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law and respecting the independence of the justice system.
The Prime Minister thanked the President for Croatia’s early ratification of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The two leaders welcomed the economic benefits CETA has brought to both Canada and Croatia, including new opportunities and markets for business and jobs for people in both our countries.
Statement by the Prime Minister on Vimy Ridge Day
April 9, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Vimy Ridge Day:
“Today, we mark a milestone in our country’s history, and remember the thousands of Canadians who gave their lives at Vimy Ridge.
“The Battle of Vimy Ridge was a momentous victory and a turning point for Canada, when the four divisions of the Canadian Corps fought together for the first time.
“On Easter Monday, 1917, soldiers from all across Canada – Francophones, Anglophones, new Canadians, and Indigenous peoples – fought through snow, sleet, and withering machine gun fire. They broke through an impregnable fortress, seized the ridge, and achieved one of the Great War’s most decisive victories.
“Some say Canada was born that day, through great sacrifice and loss. Nearly 3,600 Canadians lost their lives and over 7,000 more were wounded. The Battle of Vimy Ridge remains one of the bloodiest battles in Canada’s history.
“We owe an immense debt of gratitude to those who fought at Vimy Ridge, as we do to all Canadians in uniform, past and present. Their service and sacrifice are the reason we – and so many people around the world – enjoy peace and freedom today.
“Lest we forget.”
Statement by the Prime Minister on National Volunteer Week
April 7, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on National Volunteer Week:
“During National Volunteer Week, we take time to recognize Canadians who give their time and skills to help build up their communities and make a difference in the lives of others.
“This year’s theme, ‘The volunteer factor – lifting communities,’ highlights how volunteers change their communities for the better. We see the results of this every day, from tutors helping students succeed in school, to volunteer firefighters rushing to help neighbours in need.
“By celebrating volunteers’ leadership, we can help empower more Canadians to create positive change. On April 8, 2019, nominations for Canada’s Volunteer Awards will open. I encourage all Canadians to nominate an exceptional individual or organization that has made a difference in their community.
“The Government of Canada is supporting young Canadians who want to make change and build a new culture of service. Launched in January 2018, the Canada Service Corps gives young people the chance to hone their leadership skills, develop their strengths, and gain essential experience. Through Budget 2019, the Government of Canada proposes to significantly expand this initiative with new placements and opportunities for young people. These measures are helping support the next generation of leaders, who will carry the values of community service and civic engagement throughout their lives.
“Everyone, no matter their age, can play a role in shaping their community and building a better Canada. Even the smallest act of kindness – shoveling someone’s driveway or helping a neighbour carry their groceries – can make a big difference. On behalf of the Government of Canada, I thank all volunteers for their selfless service to their communities and to our country.”
Statement by the Prime Minister on World Health Day
April 7, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on World Health Day:
“Today, as we celebrate World Health Day and the founding of the World Health Organization, we are reminded of our shared responsibility to promote and advocate for better health care access around the world.
“Since its creation in 1948, the World Health Organization has played a crucial role in supporting global health initiatives and raising awareness of international health concerns. This year, they continue to focus on universal health coverage, recognizing that everyone has the right to access essential health services without discrimination or financial hardship.
“We have made great strides as a global community, but there is still more to be done to make sure everyone has access to the health services they need.
“Here at home, Canadians are proud of our health care system, which provides care based on need and not the ability to pay. The Government of Canada is working hard to find new ways to improve our system, respond quickly to new and emerging health concerns, and address disparities in access to health services – particularly those facing Indigenous peoples – across the country.
“With Budget 2019, the Government of Canada, in partnership with provinces, territories, Indigenous peoples, and stakeholders, is taking important first steps to implement national pharmacare. These steps – creating a Canadian Drug Agency, developing a national formulary, and establishing a strategy for high-cost drugs for rare diseases – will go a long way to make prescription drugs more affordable and accessible for more Canadians.
“The Government of Canada will continue to take action to help all Canadians get the medicine and support they need when they need it. Advocating for universal health coverage is not only an investment in people, but also in the future of Canada. When everyone has access to affordable health care, we have healthier families, stronger communities, and a thriving country for generations to come.”
Statement by the Prime Minister on the 25th commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda
April 7, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the 25th commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda:
“Today, we remember one of the darkest chapters in recent history – the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, which began twenty-five years ago to the day. In the months that followed, more than 800,000 innocent people –Tutsis, moderate Hutus, and others – were senselessly and brutally murdered in an organized campaign of genocide.
“On this solemn day, we join the Rwandan people and the international community to remember and pay tribute to all those who lost their lives in the genocide. We offer our deepest sympathies to their families and loved ones, and to everyone living with the pain and trauma caused by these atrocities.
“Today, we also honour the bravery of all those who risked their lives to save others in this dark time. We recognize the members of the United Nations peace support mission in Rwanda, including Canadian peacekeepers and General Roméo Dallaire, who, in spite of their small number and limited mandate, did everything in their power to protect those seeking refuge.
“Canada is working with its partners to defend human rights around the world and make sure atrocities like this never happen again. With the Elsie Initiative and the Vancouver Principles – now endorsed by 81 countries – Canada has taken a lead role to support peacekeeping and protect those most vulnerable in conflict situations. We also commend the progress Rwanda has made to advance reconciliation and development – and we will continue to promote pluralism, inclusion, and human rights everywhere as the basis for peace and justice.
“This genocide – like all others – showed the world the unconscionable cost of division and hatred. I ask all Canadians to take time today to remember those who lost their lives twenty-five years ago. We can honour them by fighting hate, protecting the most vulnerable, and working to make our world a better one.”
Statement by the Prime Minister on the first anniversary of the tragic bus crash involving the Humboldt Broncos
April 6, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the first anniversary of the tragic bus crash involving the Humboldt Broncos in Saskatchewan:
“One year ago, a devastating highway crash took sixteen lives and forever changed the lives of many more.
“Today, we remember the members of the Humboldt Broncos we lost, and offer our support to all those who lost loved ones, and continue to live with trauma, pain, anger, and grief. We also honour the first responders – the RCMP, the Provincial Response Team, and medical personnel – who responded to this extremely difficult situation with courage and professionalism.
“In the face of irreparable loss and injury, Humboldt showed us what resilience and community mean. When we think of Humboldt, we cannot forget pictures of the wreckage – but what will stay in our hearts forever are images of compassion and strength: players clasping hands, united, in the hospital ward; young men learning to stand, walk, and take to the ice again; hockey sticks leaned up against thousands of Canadian front doors.
“The outpouring of love and support from across the country lifted all of our hearts. It was a vivid reminder that in this country, when kindness is most needed, we will be there for each other.
“A tragedy like this should never happen again. We are working with the Canadian Council of Motor Transportation Administrators to develop a standard for entry-level training for truck drivers across Canada, so they have the knowledge and skills they need to operate their vehicles safely. We will also make it mandatory, as of September 2020, for all new medium and large highway buses to have seat belts for passengers, and we are encouraged by community-based efforts to promote their use.
“To the people of Humboldt and all those affected by this tragedy: we are with you. Today, and every day, 37 million Canadians continue to cheer you on.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with President of the European Council Donald Tusk
April 5, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Trudeau spoke with Donald Tusk, President of the European Council.
The Prime Minister and the President discussed the European Union – China Summit that will take place next week. Prime Minister Trudeau also raised with President Tusk the ongoing Canadian consular cases in China. The two leaders underscored the importance of respecting the rule of law, upholding the independence of the judiciary, and promoting human rights.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Tusk discussed the ongoing crisis in Venezuela, reiterating their commitment to support the Venezuelan people and a peaceful resolution of the situation.
The two leaders also discussed ongoing developments with respect to Brexit. Prime Minister Trudeau emphasized Canada’s deep relationship with both the United Kingdom and other European Union Member States.
Historic investments to improve affordable housing in Toronto
April 5, 2019
Toronto, Ontario
Every Canadian deserves to have a safe and affordable place to call home. That is why the Government of Canada launched Canada’s very first National Housing Strategy – a once-in-a-generation investment to fight homelessness and improve access to affordable housing for Canadians.
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced a new $1.3 billion partnership with the City of Toronto – the largest federal housing investment with a municipal partner in Canadian history– to support the renovation of more than 58,000 affordable housing units. The renovations, scheduled to begin in spring 2019, will ensure that these units remain available to those who need an affordable place to live, while improving living conditions, safety, accessibility, and comfort for tenants, and making the units more energy efficient.
In Budget 2019, the government also announced measures to make it easier for more Canadians to buy their first home, including increasing the Home Buyers’ Plan withdrawal limit from $25,000 to $35,000. This measure will provide first-time home buyers with greater access to their Registered Retirement Savings Plan savings to buy a home. The Budget also proposes the new First-Time Home Buyer Incentive, where eligible first-time home buyers could share a part of the cost of buying a home with the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), reducing the size of their insured mortgage and lowering their monthly mortgage payments.
By making smart investments in housing initiatives that put people first, the Government of Canada is making it easier and more affordable for more Canadians to rent or buy a home, while keeping markets accessible for future generations.
Quotes
“All parents want to give their children the best possible start in life, and that starts with making sure they have a safe and comfortable home. Today’s announcement is about investing in the people of Toronto, and giving them the opportunity they deserve to build bright futures for themselves, their families, and their communities.”
—The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
“More than 58,000 Toronto families will have an improved, safe and affordable place to call home thanks to today’s announcement. This is the largest federal housing investment with a municipal partner in Canadian history and it builds on our Government’s commitment to restore the federal leadership in housing through the National Housing Strategy.”
—The Hon. Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and Minister responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
“Today's announcement is a clear example the federal government is back in housing. The City of Toronto has been working on a solution to TCHC repair backlog for a decade. I am so proud to be part of a Government that's delivering real support for thousands of Toronto families.”
—Adam Vaughan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development
“I want to thank Prime Minister Trudeau and Minister Duclos for the $1.3 billion commitment to Toronto Community Housing repairs in 1,500 buildings across the city. This investment will ensure more families have access to good homes and it will help make so many communities across Toronto even stronger. It represents the very best of how our governments can work together to get things done for our residents.”
—John Tory, Mayor of Toronto
Quick Facts
- This investment in Toronto is part of CMHC’s $13.2 billion National Housing Co-Investment Fund, an initiative under the National Housing Strategy and the Investing in Canada Plan, and the largest program of its kind in Canadian history.
- The units being renovated are managed by the Toronto Community Housing Corporation, the largest social housing provider in Canada, and second largest in North America.
- The $1.3 billion partnership with the City of Toronto is in addition to the $4.2 billion Canada-Ontario Bilateral Agreement under the National Housing Strategy.
- As part of the agreement with the City of Toronto, the Government of Canada will provide $810 million in loans and $530 million in contributions over a 10-year period.
- The National Housing Co-Investment Fund provides low-cost loans and financial contributions to support and develop affordable housing that is energy efficient and accessible.
- Through the National Housing Co-Investment Fund, in addition to making renovations to existing affordable housing spaces, the Government of Canada will work with partners to build up to 60,000 new affordable homes, and repair up to 240,000 existing affordable and community homes across Canada over the next 10 years.
- In 2017, the Government of Canada announced a 10-year National Housing Strategy that will help reduce homelessness and improve the availability and quality of housing for Canadians in need. The strategy sets clear goals to remove 530,000 Canadians from housing need.
- Additionally, the Strategy will protect the affordability of 385,000 existing housing units, repair 300,000 homes, build another 100,000, and provide direct support for those in housing need.
- The First-Time Home Buyer Incentive, administered by the CMHC, would help eligible Canadians with a household income under $120,000 per year afford to buy their first home.
- Through the new Incentive, the CMHC would provide 5 per cent of the value of a home for a first-time homebuyer through a shared investment.
- To encourage the construction of new housing supply, the Incentive would increase to 10 per cent for a newly-built home.
Associated Links
- Canada’s National Housing Strategy
- Improving Affordability Today: Support for First-Time Home Buyers
- National Housing Co-Investment Fund
- Investing in Canada: Canada’s Long-Term Infrastructure Plan
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker
April 4, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
Today Prime Minister Trudeau spoke with Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the European Commission.
The Prime Minister and the President discussed relations with China, including trade, Canadian consular cases, and the European Union’s upcoming Summit with China.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Juncker reiterated the importance of upholding the rule of law and independence of the judiciary, and respecting the rules-based international trading system as embodied in the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and the European Union. CETA is creating middle class jobs and new opportunities for businesses on both sides of the Atlantic.
The two leaders also shared perspectives on political developments in Europe, particularly Brexit. Prime Minister Trudeau underscored the importance of Canada’s continued deep relationships with the United Kingdom as well as other Member States of the European Union.
Budget 2019 investments to help Canadian students and workers find and keep good jobs
April 4, 2019
Alma, Quebec
The nature of work is changing, and Canadians need the right skills to take on the jobs of tomorrow. The Government of Canada is working to help Canadian students and workers of all ages get ahead in today’s economy and build a better future for themselves and their families.
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today visited Alma, Quebec, to highlight how Budget 2019 will help Quebecers – and all Canadians – succeed in a rapidly changing job market and an increasingly competitive global economy.
Introduced in Budget 2019, the new Canada Training Benefit will help workers gain the skills they need. The Benefit will provide a credit to help workers pay for training, as well as up to four weeks of income support through a new Employment Insurance Training Support Benefit, so they can take time off work to pursue training. The government will also consult with provinces and territories on changes to labour laws to protect jobs, so that workers can take the time they need to keep their skills up‑to‑date and in-demand.
Through Budget 2019, the government is also helping more young Canadians pursue the careers of their choice, by enhancing support for apprenticeships and making post‑secondary education more affordable. New measures will also support post-secondary education for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students, and help them gain the skills they need to succeed.
With new investments in student work placements, Budget 2019 is a significant step toward providing a work placement for every student who wants one. Young Canadians will also benefit from support for service experiences through the Canada Service Corps, and opportunities to work or study abroad, giving them an advantage in our global economy.
Canadians are among the most skilled and highly educated workers in the world. With this year’s budget, the Government of Canada is helping Canadians develop their skills throughout their working lives, so they can build good careers and benefit from Canada’s growing economy.
Quotes
“With the changing nature of work, people need to upgrade their skills more often – or learn new ones. But that’s easier said than done. That’s why our government decided to change things, and support workers who want to get their skills up to speed. Thanks to our plan, we’re helping Canadians across the country to succeed in the economy of today and tomorrow.”
—The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
“The Canada Training Benefit is about giving workers the two things they need most to upgrade their skills: time and money. These measures will help Canadians find and keep good, well-paying jobs and ensure everyone has a fair chance at success – not just for today but for the future of work in Canada.”
—The Hon. Patty Hajdu, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour
Quick Facts
- The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development estimates that one in ten Canadian jobs are at high risk of automation, with about one in three jobs likely to experience significant change as a result of automation.
- The Government of Canada makes significant investments in skills development – close to $7.5 billion annually. More than $3 billion of this programming is delivered in partnership with the provinces, territories and Indigenous groups, and targets students and Canadians who are unemployed.
- Introduced in Budget 2019, the Canada Training Benefit will provide a typical Canadian worker, after four years, with $1,000 Canada Training Credit balance, which can be claimed fully against training and tuition fees of $2,000 or more. In addition, the EI Training Support Benefit will provide up to four weeks of income support, paid at 55 per cent of average weekly earnings.
- Budget 2019 investments will also create up to 84,000 new student work placements per year by 2023-2024 for young people to learn new skills, build their resumes, and help them start their careers.
- With many municipalities across Canada facing serious infrastructure needs, Budget 2019 also proposes a one-time transfer of $2.2 billion through the federal Gas Tax Fund to address short-term priorities in municipalities and First Nations communities, including $504 million for Quebec. This top-up will double the amount of money that municipalities get through the gas tax transfer for 2018-19, and give much needed support for local priorities.
- In 2016, the Government of Canada launched the biggest infrastructure plan in Canadian history. Since then, we have approved thousands of infrastructure projects across Canada and invested over $56 million in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, including projects that result in improvements to transportation routes, public transit, sports centres, and access to drinking water.
Associated Links
- Budget 2019
- The Canada Training Benefit
- Canada Service Corps
- Investing in Young Canadians
- Statement by the Prime Minister on the 70th anniversary of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization
April 4, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the 70th anniversary of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization:
“Today, Canada joins our Allies to mark the 70th anniversary of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a major milestone for Euro-Atlantic security and for Canada.
“Founded in 1949, NATO has brought countries on both sides of the Atlantic together to build peace, security, and stability, and to uphold the fundamental values of individual liberty, human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. For 70 years, the Alliance has played a crucial role in preventing conflict and preserving peace – from acting as a deterrent during the Cold War, to helping to restore peace in the Balkans, to leading training and security-building efforts in Afghanistan.
“Today, NATO continues to modernize and adapt to respond to changing security threats and new challenges, while holding steadfast to its founding principles. Through its Open Door Policy, the Alliance welcomes new members who share the desire to work collectively to support the rules-based international order and contribute to Euro-Atlantic security. We look forward to welcoming North Macedonia as the Alliance’s 30th member once its accession process is completed.
“Canada is a proud founding member of this growing community. We have demonstrated strong and active leadership in NATO throughout its history, and will continue to do so. The threats we face today know no borders, and we know that together, we are safer and stronger.
“At the NATO Summit this past July, Canada increased its support to the Alliance. We are leading the multinational enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group Latvia under Operation REASSURANCE, and have rejoined the Airborne Warning and Control System program. We also assumed command of the new NATO training and capacity building mission in Iraq, to help Iraq strengthen its defence and security institutions, and support long-lasting peace and security.
“NATO defends important values that Canadians hold dear. Today, as we celebrate this milestone anniversary, Canada reaffirms its commitment to work with our Allies to build a safer, more peaceful world for our citizens and people around the world.”
Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee releases national Inuit housing strategy and continues progress on shared priorities
April 3, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, President Natan Obed of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, Cabinet ministers, and Inuit leaders today gathered for a meeting of the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee to review progress and set priorities for the third year of the Committee.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister and Committee members reflected on the important progress made this past year. These accomplishments include:
- The release of the co-developed Inuit Nunangat Housing Strategy, which will help improve housing conditions across Inuit regions of Canada, and develop Inuit-led housing solutions that reflect Inuit lifestyles, traditions, and culture.
- The endorsement of the Inuit Tuberculosis Elimination Framework – and joint commitment to eradicate tuberculosis among Inuit by 2030.
- The co-development of the Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Framework, which will help ensure Inuit children and young people can access the care and education they need to succeed.
Over the last year, the Government of Canada and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami have also taken important steps toward reconciliation, including the Government of Canada’s apology to Ahiarmiut Inuit for their forced relocation; the Prime Minister’s apology on behalf of the government for its management of the tuberculosis epidemic from the 1940s to the 1960s; and the launch of the Nanilavut Initiative to help Inuit find lost loved ones.
In addition, the Committee established its first work plan focused on the environment and climate change, and furthered its efforts to protect the ocean, including signing the Pikialasorsuaq Joint Leaders Statement. Through this statement, the Government of Canada and Inuit leaders are committing to work in partnership together, and with the governments of Denmark and Greenland, to protect Pikialasorsuaq – an open-water area surrounded by ice in northern Baffin Bay, between Nunavut and Greenland.
The Committee also began work to establish new areas of focus for its third year, including continuing to address infrastructure gaps in Inuit Nunangat.
The Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee reflects a firm commitment to a renewed Inuit-Crown relationship and to reconciliation based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation, and partnership.
Quotes
“Since 2017, Inuit leaders and federal ministers have been working together to renew the Inuit-Crown relationship, advance reconciliation, and create prosperity for all Inuit. We’re committed to finding community-owned, community-driven solutions, like the new housing strategy, which has been designed by Inuit in partnership with the federal government, and will be delivered by Inuit. Together, we are partners in building a brighter future for communities across Inuit Nunangat, and for all Canadians.”
—The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
“Reliable access to housing is foundational to Inuit health and well-being. The collaboration with the federal government on the National Inuit Housing Strategy which is being released today seeks to improve housing conditions across Inuit Nunangat and ensure better outcomes through greater Inuit self-determination and control.”
—President Natan Obed, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami
Quick Facts
- Other key achievements in year two of the Committee include:
- the launch of the Child First Initiative
- the creation of an Inuit-Crown Food Security working group
- ongoing work on the new Arctic and Northern Policy Framework
- the endorsement of a mandate to explore options for action on Inuit kindergarten to grade 12 schooling
- The Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee was created in February 2017 with the signing of the Inuit Nunangat Declaration on Inuit-Crown Partnership. It is founded on the principle that an equal partnership between Inuit and the Crown is essential to the reconciliation process.
- The Committee is co-chaired by the Prime Minister and the president of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami. Members include federal cabinet ministers and the elected leaders of the Nunatsiavut Government, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc., Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, and Makivik Corporation.
- The Committee also includes as observers the presidents of the National Inuit Youth Council, Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada, and the Inuit Circumpolar Council Canada.
- Pikialasorsuaq, also known as the North Water Polynya, is one of the world’s most productive ocean ecosystems – supporting an abundance of marine mammals, including narwhal, walrus, seals, and polar bears, as well as seabirds and a variety of fish.
- According to Canada’s Changing Climate Report, both past and future warming in Canada is, on average, about double the magnitude of global warming. Northern Canada has warmed and will continue to warm at more than double the global rate.
Associated Links
- Inuit Nunangat Housing Strategy
- Inuit Nunangat Declaration on Inuit-Crown Partnership
- Prime Minister of Canada and President of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami announce the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee
- ICPC Releases National Inuit Housing Strategy at Third Annual Meeting with the Prime Minister
- Canada advances reconciliation with historic apology to the Ahiarmiut
- Prime Minister delivers apology to Inuit for the federal government’s management of tuberculosis epidemic from the 1940s-1960s
- Tuberculosis Elimination Framework Released
- The Nanilavut Initiative
- Budget 2019 – Supporting Inuit Priorities
