NEU Urges Nunavut Government to Tackle Urgent Cost of Living Crisis

UPDATE: The Nunavut Employees Union (NEU) has issued an urgent call for the next territorial government to confront the escalating cost of living crisis threatening residents across Nunavut. This announcement comes as many families struggle to afford basic necessities, with shocking prices reported for essential goods.

In a territory where one in three working-age residents are union members, the NEU highlights the severe challenges faced by communities. During a recent visit to Pangnirtung, officials noted the exorbitant price of a litre of cranberry juice at $49 and baby wipes costing over $85. Meanwhile, in Gjoa Haven, a pack of diapers is priced at $68, and cooking oil hovers around $30. These figures illustrate a dire situation where essential items are not only costly but often unavailable.

The NEU emphasizes the gravity of the situation, stating,

“We need a territorial government that is willing to call this a cost of living crisis and prioritize it accordingly.”

This plea underscores the desperation felt by many families who are already struggling to make ends meet.

In Iqaluit, the largest city in Nunavut, the Qajuqturvik Community Food Centre reported feeding over 600 residents weekly during lunch hours, highlighting the critical food insecurity plaguing the area. Local food banks also struggle to keep up with demand, providing essential items to residents each week.

The NEU points out that while wage negotiations and housing initiatives are crucial, they are not enough to solve this ongoing crisis. “It’s not enough to pay Nunavummiut better wages or provide them with housing or to launch a temporary food voucher program,” a union representative stated. The call is for comprehensive, long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes.

As Nunavummiut head to the polls today, the NEU urges voters to support candidates who prioritize addressing food insecurity and the high cost of living. The union believes strong leadership is necessary to hold both the territorial and federal governments accountable in addressing this pressing issue.

This situation is developing rapidly, and the NEU’s demands could shape the future of Nunavut’s governance. As more communities voice their struggles, the urgency for action on this cost of living crisis could not be clearer. The impact of these rising costs on families is profound, affecting everything from nutrition to child care, and immediate intervention is needed to safeguard the well-being of Nunavut’s residents.

Stay tuned for updates as this critical situation unfolds and as Nunavummiut make their voices heard at the ballot box.