1. Slide Deck 2: Governments in Nunavut

2. What do you know about the structure of governments in Canada and Nunavut? What are the different roles and responsibilities?

3. The Levels of Government
Canada is a large and diverse country
To serve citizens most effectively, there are multiple levels of government: federal, provincial/territorial and municipal, as well as Indigenous governments
Each level has its own structure and a unique set of responsibilities

4. Federal
The elected representative at the national level is called a Member of Parliament (MP)
There are 338 elected MPs. They make up the legislative body, which creates or enacts laws for the country
MPs debate and pass laws in the House of Commons in Ottawa
The leader of the government is called the prime minister

5. Who is the current prime minister?
Who is Nunavut’s MP?

6. Territorial
The elected representatives are called Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) in Nunavut
The territorial legislative body is made up of 22 MLAs
MLAs debate and pass laws at the Legislative Building in Iqaluit
The leader of the government is called the premier

7. Who is the current premier?
Who is our MLA?

8. Municipal
The elected representative at the municipal level is called a council member or councillor
Municipal councils debate and pass laws at the local city or town hall
The head of the council is called a mayor
The size and structure of the council differs, depending on the population

9. Who is the current mayor? Who is our council representative?

10. Who is responsible for what?
Name the level of government you think is responsible for the following:
International trade
Local parks
Education
Immigration
Fire protection

11. Examples of Government Responsibilities
Federal: Global affairs, immigration and citizenship, national defence, currency, public safety, fisheries and oceans
Territorial: Education, health care delivery, social welfare, transportation and highways
Municipal: Water supply and sewer services, roads and sidewalks, garbage and recreational facilities

12. What is unique about the Nunavut territorial government?

13. Consensus Government
MLAs do not belong to political parties; instead, they are elected as independent representatives
The purpose is to facilitate a more open style of communication between MLAs where everyone has the right to express their opinions and voice their concerns
The goal of a consensus government is to reach solutions that are the result of negotiation, and the final decision will have taken into account everyone’s point of view and perspective on an issue
The consensus style reflects Inuit traditional knowledge and governance structure

14. The territorial government is divided into three branches:
legislative, executive and judicial

15. Legislative Branch
The legislative branch creates and amends laws, rules and regulations under territorial jurisdiction
The legislative branch is made up of all of the Members of the Legislative Assembly
There are currently 22 MLAs and each represents a different geographic area called a constituency (also known as a riding or electoral district)

16. The Role of MLAs
When the legislative assembly is sitting (in session), MLAs are responsible for proposing, studying, debating and voting on bills (potential laws), and raising issues put forward by their constituents
When the Legislature is not sitting, MLAs meet with their constituents (people living in the constituency they represent) to discuss the constituents’ concerns and to provide guidance and advice relating to government services

17. Executive Branch
The executive branch consists of the premier and seven members of the cabinet (also known the executive council)
Cabinet ministers are chosen by all MLAs following a territorial election
Each cabinet minister is an elected MLA in charge of one or more of the territorial departments and acts as an advisor to the premier and the Legislative Assembly in their respective area
The executive branch implements and enforces laws, rules and regulations

18. Judicial Branch
The judicial branch interprets laws, rules and regulations and punishes those who violate them
The judicial branch of government is headed by the Nunavut Court of Justice and six appointed judges
The Nunavut court system is responsible for deciding who has broken the law and for dispensing the appropriate punishment for the crime committed

19. Territorial Commissioner
The Commissioner of Nunavut is appointed by the Government of Canada
The territorial commissioner acts as the federal government’s representative in Nunavut
The commissioner is responsible for swearing in MLAs to the legislature and members of the cabinet, opening sessions of the legislative assembly and reading the throne speech, approving laws and bills that pass through the legislative assembly, as well as signing important documents
The commissioner serves as a link between the government and the people

20. Can you name the current territorial commissioner?

21. Indigenous Governments
Indigenous governments often share certain responsibilities with the government of their province/territory and the federal government
The term self‑government refers to a First Nation, Métis or Inuit community/nation with control over its own affairs
Federal and provincial/territorial laws still apply and the other levels of government will often work together for the benefit of all community members
Nunavut’s system of self‑government represents both Inuit and non-Inuit residents equally, offering them the same rights and protection

22. Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit
The Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ) principles encompass knowledge, beliefs and social values of Inuit culture and guide Inuit governance and relationships
The Nunavut government, and all departments, are guided by IQ principles
There are 8 IQ principles:
Avatittinik Kamatsiarniq – respect and care for the land, animals and the environment
Tunnganarniq – fostering good spirit by being open, welcoming and inclusive
Inuuqatigiitsiarniq – respecting others, relationships, and caring for people
Pilitsirniq – serving and providing for family and or family
Piliriqatigiinniq – decision making through discussion and consensus
Qanuqtuurniq – being innovative and resourceful
Pilimmaksarniq – development of skills through practice, effort, and action

23. Self-Government
Self‑governing First Nations have the ability to sign treaties (formal agreements) with the Canadian federal government (referred to as the Crown)
Comprehensive land claims agreements (modern treaties) between Canadian governments and First Nations often result in Indigenous peoples having greater autonomy to choose their own method(s) of representation and decision-making

24. Final Thoughts How does government affect your life?
Which level of government affects your life the most? Why?
Why is it important to know who your local elected representative is?