PM Carney meets Inuit leaders in Inuvik to discuss fast-tracking key northern infrastructure projects under Canada’s new nation-building legislation.
Leaders Gather in Inuvik for High-Stakes Infrastructure Talks
Prime Minister Mark Carney met with Inuit leaders in Inuvik, Northwest Territories on Thursday to advance dialogue on fast-tracking critical infrastructure projects in Canada’s North. The meeting is part of the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee, co-chaired by Carney and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami President Natan Obed, focusing on how new legislation could shape the future of Indigenous communities.
New Legislation and National Priorities
Central to the meeting was the federal government’s proposed C-5 legislation, which would give cabinet powers to approve projects deemed in the national interest—such as transmission lines, railways, and pipelines—prior to environmental assessments or full Indigenous consultation. While controversial among some First Nations, Thursday’s discussions aimed for a more collaborative tone with Inuit leaders.
Projects with Regional and National Impact
Northern leaders used the opportunity to highlight key infrastructure proposals. Among them is the Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link, which would connect Nunavut to Manitoba’s power grid and high-speed internet, and the Grays Bay Port and Road, designed to give Nunavut direct access to resource development and the Northwest Passage.
“These are not just economic projects—they’re about sovereignty, security, and self-sufficiency,” said Nunavut Premier P.J. Akeeagok, who supports the initiatives alongside N.W.T. Premier R.J. Simpson.
Energy and Economic Security at the Forefront
The Inuvialuit Regional Corporation is also pursuing a domestic natural gas solution near Inuvik to reduce dependence on propane trucked over 2,000 kilometres. Duane Ningaqsiq Smith, CEO of the corporation, said these efforts are crucial for long-term energy security in the Arctic.
“We want to stop being dependent on expensive, imported energy when we have resources under our feet,” Smith stated, urging the prime minister to prioritize local development.
Urgent Social Needs Raised by Inuit Communities
In addition to infrastructure, leaders emphasized the urgent need for improvements in housing, food security, and healthcare. Smith noted that his region currently lacks basic dental services, forcing residents to travel nearly 1,000 kilometres for care.
“The average Canadian wouldn’t accept this,” he said. “Infrastructure is nation-building—but so is access to basic services.”
Building Trust Through Shared Goals
Despite tensions surrounding the new law in previous meetings with First Nations leaders, the tone in Inuvik was more constructive. Leaders acknowledged the need for development but stressed it must be balanced with cultural preservation and autonomy.
“We’re Indigenous—everything is interconnected,” Smith said. “We support development that empowers us to take care of our people and our future.”
The Inuvik summit marks a pivotal step in Carney’s broader engagement strategy, as he seeks Indigenous partnerships in reshaping Canada’s approach to northern development.
