I am pleased the Senate has adopted the Nunavut Official Languages Act.

I introduced a motion in support of the Act in Parliament on June 2nd. But it was held up by the Liberals in the Senate.

When Nunavut was created in 1999, Nunavut inherited the Northwest Territories Official Languages Act. English, French and six aboriginal languages had official language status. This did not reflect the unique, linguistic reality of Nunavut. Over 70 per cent of the Nunavut population speak Inuktitut and Inuinnaqtun. Very few speak other aboriginal languages.

Nunavut adopted a new Official Languages Act in June 2008. It recognizes English, French, Inuktitut and Inuinnaqtun as official languages of Nunavut, and establishes official language requirements for the Legislative Assembly. This will help to preserve the Inuit language and culture and to establish mechanisms so that Inuit will eventually proudly control their institutions, speak their language and manage their future. It’s unfortunate the Liberals tried to stop this.
 
However, yesterday, the Liberals finally accepted the motion. Our Conservative Government will continue to work with Nunavummuit to support our culture and heritage.

The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq
Minister of Health Canada - Santé Canada,
Minister Responsible for the North,
Nunavut M.P.