Canada Strengthens Arctic Presence as MP Attends Key Talks in Finland

A significant meeting of circumpolar parliamentarians took place in Oulu, Finland, focusing on Canada’s Arctic sovereignty and icebreaker capabilities. Yukon MP Brendan Hanley participated in this one-day conference, which addressed themes of northern security, energy transition, and Indigenous relations. Alongside him, Conservative MP Bob Zimmer represented Canada in discussions that included delegates from Nordic countries, Alaska, and Canada.

During the meeting, which occurred on September 12, 2023, sovereignty and security emerged as critical topics. This was particularly relevant in light of Finland’s recent accession to NATO on April 4, 2023. Hanley highlighted the importance of collaboration among Arctic nations, stating that the discussions were fruitful in sharing strategies on Arctic preparedness.

A pivotal announcement made during the meeting was Canada’s $3.25 billion contract with Davie Shipbuilding in Lauzon, Quebec, for the construction of a new icebreaker. The vessel, which is expected to enhance Canada’s capabilities in Arctic waters, will be built in a collaborative effort with facilities in Helsinki, leveraging Finland’s shipbuilding expertise. Hanley noted, “As I understand it, this actually will be joint construction, so part of the construction in Helsinki, but then some of the structure will be back in Canada, and that will be in Quebec.”

Finland’s shipbuilding facilities, previously engaged in contracts with Russia, have seen reduced activity, providing an opportunity for this partnership. The agreement stems from the Ice Pact, a trilateral initiative involving Canada, Finland, and the United States aimed at advancing icebreaker manufacturing capabilities. U.S. Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski, who chaired the meeting, underscored the significance of icebreakers within American Arctic strategy.

Hanley emphasized that strengthening Canada’s icebreaker capacity is essential for ensuring national security and sovereignty, especially as the Northwest Passage becomes more navigable due to climate change. He remarked, “Assuring our own security and sovereignty is a real shared priority and I think building our icebreaker capacity is part of that, particularly when it’s in collaboration with like-minded partners.”

The meeting also examined Finland’s civic preparedness model, particularly its innovative use of underground bunkers that serve multiple community purposes, including daycares and recreation centers. This approach helps citizens remain familiar with emergency infrastructure, a strategy that could inform Canadian practices.

In discussions surrounding Indigenous relations, Hanley pointed out the effective consultation practices of the Sami people in Scandinavia. He argued that Canada’s approach to Indigenous partnerships in resource development is more robust and could serve as a model for collaborative governance. To further this initiative, he proposed incorporating Indigenous consultation into the agenda for the committee’s next meeting, scheduled for spring 2026 in Fairbanks, Alaska. He cited the Selkirk First Nation’s acquisition of the Minto Mine as a prime example of meaningful partnership in resource development.

The outcomes of this meeting are expected to influence future Arctic policy and strengthen collaborative efforts among Arctic nations, further enhancing Canada’s role in northern affairs. As climate change continues to reshape the Arctic landscape, the importance of dialogue and cooperation among these nations becomes increasingly evident.