Nutrition North Canada Advisory Board Meets with Northerners

Ref. #2-3492

Iqaluit, Nunavut (June 1, 2011) – The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development and the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health, and Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor), applauded the successful first public meeting between the Nutrition North Canada Advisory Board and Northerners.“The comments and suggestions gathered during this first public meeting and from other stakeholder engagement are vital to the successful ongoing implementation of Nutrition North Canada,” said Minister Duncan. “Input from Northerners will help our Government ensure this program truly meets the needs of those who use it every day.”

The Advisory Board will work with Northerners to give them a voice as Nutrition North Canada moves forward. The Board held its first public meeting to gather feedback directly from Northerners. Representatives from both Indian and Northern Affairs Canada and Health Canada were on hand to provide updates on the work plan and answer questions.

“I appreciate all the input and advice Northerners have given the Advisory Board about Nutrition North Canada over the past several months,” said Elizabeth Copland, Chair, Nutrition North Canada Advisory Board. “It is a priority for myself and my fellow board members to pass along the concerns and suggestions we’ve heard and to work with Minister Duncan to continue to improve Nutrition North Canada.”

The Nutrition North Canada Advisory Board was created to foster engagement with Northerners, to enhance the transparency of the program, and to provide information and advice to help the Department guide the management of Nutrition North Canada.

“Today’s meeting on Nutrition North Canada is another example of the Government of Canada’s commitment to listen to Northerners,” said Minister Aglukkaq. “The Board’s advice will help to strengthen the program and support increased access to healthy food for Northerners.”

Advisory Board members are Northerners with diverse experiences and strong skill sets. Members provide important information and advice to help guide the management of this program.

The Board is an integral part of Nutrition North Canada because it will ensure that Northerners are represented. Nutrition North Canada was developed following three years of extensive engagement with Northerners. This government is listening to Northerners and consumers, and encourages Northerners to stay engaged through providing feedback on the Program.

The Board will continue to meet with stakeholders and listen to their feedback as they prepare advice for the Minister. The next public meeting is scheduled for Fall 2011.

Nutrition North Canada – Bringing Fresh, Healthy Food to Northern Homes

To contact the Nutrition North CanadaAdvisory Board email: nncadvisoryboard@inac.gc.ca.

Related links:
www.nutritionnorthcanada.ca

For more information, please contact:

Minister’s Office
Michele-Jamali Paquette
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable John Duncan
819-997-0002

Media Relations
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
819-953-1160

Health Canada
Minister’s Office
Cailin Rodgers
Office of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq
Federal Minister of Health
613-957-0200

Media Relations
Health Canada
613-957-2983

Nutrition North Canada Public Enquiries:
613-957-2991
1-866-225-0709