Nunavut Donation of Food Act Receives Assent

Iqaluit, Nunavut (March 22, 2013) – The Donation of Food Act was passed into law on March 19. The Act increases protection for individuals who donate or distribute food with good intentions.

“I want to congratulate and thank MLA Ron Elliott for bringing this Act forward as a private members bill,” said Keith Peterson, Minister of Health and Social Services. “The Act received unanimous support from all members of our legislature.”

The Department of Health and Social Services (HSS) has put together information on the importance of food safety and safe food handling. The documents – “Four Steps to Prevent Food-Borne Illness” and a fact sheet “Donated Foods Guidelines” – provide information on proper food storage, handling and preparation. The fact sheet gives quick tips to donors and
recipients. The pamphlet and fact sheet will be available at all health centres, and can also be accessed through the HSS website.

“The new Act provides additional protections for donors while ensuring the continued generosity of Nunavummiut,” said Ron Elliott, MLA Quttiktuq. “I’m pleased HSS is taking steps to inform donors and recipients of the importance of safe food handling.”

The new Act is effective immediately.

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Media Contact:
Ron Wassink
Acting Manager, Communications
Department of Health and Social Services
867-975-5710
[email protected]

NT4