Nunavut Suicide Prevention Strategy Partners Release Inuusivut Anninaqtuq, a Five-Year Action Plan

IQALUIT, Nunavut (June 26, 2017) – The Government of Nunavut (GN), Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. (NTI), the Royal Canadian Mounted Police “V Division” (RCMP) and Isaksimagit Inuusirmi Katujjiqatigiit Embrace Life Council (IIKELC) jointly released Inuusivut Anninaqtuq, a five-year Nunavut Suicide Prevention Strategy Action Plan today as a co-host at Facebook’s Boost Your Community summit.

Inuusivut Anninaqtuq is a reflection of the united voices of Nunavummiut. This is the most comprehensive plan to date and sets out clear outcomes towards continuing to build the resiliency of Nunavut and Nunavummiut. The action plan defines commitments, outcomes and actions for 2017-2022. As a complement to the action plan, program funding for suicide prevention initiatives was also announced to further build on community led action and priorities.

In support of Inuusivut Anninaqtuq, Facebook announced the integration of Health Canada’s national toll-free First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line into its online wellness hub and suicide prevention strategy.

“Suicide is preventable and we are determined to make a difference in Nunavut,” said George Hickes, Minister of Health and Minister responsible for Suicide Prevention. “We are taking bold steps to fulfill our commitments to the strategy including $2.8 million in grants and contribution funding to support community-led action.”

“The release of Inuusivut Anninaqtuq is the culmination of years of partnership and engagement with Inuit. I am grateful for the wisdom of our community members who shared their experiences and vision throughout this process. I believe the plan is a milestone on our shared journey toward restoring Inuit wellness,” said NTI President Aluki Kotierk.

“As first responders we are often called upon to help those in crisis. The RCMP will work with key stakeholders to identify individuals at high risk.” Said Chief Superintendent Michael Jeffrey, Commanding Officer “V” Division. “Keeping our communities safe and healthy is our goal and through this plan, in concert with our Page 2

stakeholders we will work to provide an immediate, co-ordinated and integrated response to address individuals and/or families who are in need.”

“The Embrace Life Council is excited for the release of this action plan which has been the result of amazing collaboration between stakeholders, partners and communities from across Nunavut. We look forward to working with everyone as we ensure positive implementation of the action plan.”

Said David Lawson, Embrace Life Council President

A copy of Inuusivut Anninaqtuq and new safe reporting guidelines for media can be found on IIKELCl’s website www.inuusiq.com.

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For further information:

Ron Wassink
Communications Specialist
Department of Health
867-975-5710
rwassink@gov.nu.ca

Kerry McCluskey
Director of Communications
Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated
Tel: (867) 975-4914 Toll-free: 1-888-646-0006
kmccluskey@tunngavik.com
www.tunngavik.com

Insp. Dean Warr
RCMP “V” Division Media Relations
Iqaluit, Nunavut
(867) 975-4419
dean.warr@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

David Lawson
President
Isaksimagit Inuusirmi Katujjiqatigiit Embrace Life Council
(867) 975-3233 |
david.lawson@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
www.inuusiq.com

NT5