The organization representing Inuit beneficiaries in Nunavut have voted to create a not-for-profit governing body that will oversee and guide operations at Aqqusariaq Recovery Centre in Iqaluit.
Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. board members voted on the issue during their quarterly meeting held in Kinngait Aug. 27 and 28.
Work started on the $87-million centre in August 2023. It is expected to be completed in December this year.
The not-for-profit, also called Aqqusariaq, will be an arm’s-length governance structure designed to “ensure inclusive representation” at the recovery centre.
“The purpose of a non-profit entity to govern Aqqusariaq ensures that the vision of in-territory treatment remains Inuit-led in culture and language and will support communities across Nunavut,” said Ivaluarjuk Merritt, director of communication for NTI, in an email.
The Government of Nunavut consulted with NTI in 2024 on how to govern the recovery centre. In turn, NTI went to community representatives to ask for recommendations, according to a report on Aqqusariaq governance consultations released in February.
Feedback included that the governance board have qualified regional representation.
Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. “conducted research and analysis … and brought forward the recommendation from its board of directors to the Government of Nunavut that the governance of Aqqusariaq be an independent not-for-profit entity.”
The not-for-profit model allows for democratic decision-making with direct Inuit control, as well as oversight through an independent board of directors composed of Inuit and other experts, Merritt said.