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Quebec should take lead from Nunavik on programs for Indigenous people, says Inuit leader

The President of the Makivik Corporation, Jobie Tukkiapik, says several grassroots programs implemented in Nunavik have been successful in incorporating Indigenous traditions.

Makivik Corporation highlights 'good practices' at Viens Commission

CBC News ·
Jobie Tukkiapik, president of the Makivik Corporation, said it was essential to integrate the values of Inuit and First Nations when developing public programs. (CBC)
The top representative for Quebec's Inuit population says the province should take notice of successful initiatives that have been put in place in Nunavik, as the government tries to redefine its relations with Indigenous communities.

The President of the Makivik Corporation, Jobie Tukkiapik, brought this message to a provincial commission looking into the relations between Indigenous people in Quebec and public bodies.

Tukkiapik said it was essential to integrate the values of Inuit and First Nations when developing public programs, for example for health services of and child care.

''The removal of children from families and their communities is the new residential school experience,'' said Tukkiapik, adding that 374 Inuit children were put into foster care in 2015-2016.

He said the creation of two family houses in Nunavik, including the prize-winning Qarmaapik Family House, is an example of how local alternatives can be game changers.

''We want to re-educate parents to the role of parenting, and that has to become part of the solution,'' said Tukkiapik.

Deficiency of justice system 

The over-representation of Inuit detainees in Quebec's correctional system is still a major challenge, according to Tukkiapik. 

A scathing report published by Quebec's ombudsman last year found that the number of Inuit who spent time in a correctional facility in 2015 increased by 64% compared to 2010. 

Tukkiapik said while local health services have developed programs to avoid incarceration, in situations where there are mental health issues, there needs to be more culturally adapted programs in the correctional system.

''A team of trained, specialized Inuit interpreters is urgently needed,'' he said.

Tukkiapik added that Inuit don't always realize they are breaking the law and says information sessions are also key to diminishing the number of people who end up behind bars.

''We are behind the learning curve when it comes to drinking and driving. People you wouldn't expect would ever go to jail are going to jail, even if they were respected members of our community.''

Government highlights existing programs for Indigenous communities

The sixth day of the Commission, presided by Retired Superior Court justice Jacques Viens, began with Quebec government officials laying out what has been done in past years to improve provincial programs.

Yan Paquette, the Assistant Deputy Minister with the Ministry of Justice, said while there is still room for improvement, the province has put in place several consultation committees to work with local governments.

''We are working on a renewed justice system,'' he said. 

​Marlène Langlois with the Ministry of Public Security said halfway houses that integrate Indigenous customs have also been instrumental in rehabilitating offenders 

''There are designated outdoor areas for traditional ceremonies, sitting circles and creative work spaces,'' she explained.

Thursday's session will begin with testimony from the Grand Chief of the Grand Council of the Crees, Matthew Coon Come, who announced earlier this week that he would not seek re-election this summer, after 40 years of public life.

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