GN responds to NTI report on policing

Press Release

Iqaluit, Nunavut (March 10, 2025) – The Government of Nunavut (GN) recognizes the seriousness of the issues discussed in Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated’s (NTI) 2022-23 State of Inuit Culture and Society Annual Report on Policing in Nunavut. The report highlights longstanding challenges related to crime, community safety, and the historical relationship between Inuit and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Addressing these concerns requires meaningful engagement and collaboration to ensure the safety and well-being of Inuit and all Nunavummiut now and in the future.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their community,” said Minister of Justice David Akeeagok. “We know that Inuit have faced injustices in the past and we are committed to ensuring that Nunavut’s policing efforts better reflect Inuit values. By working collaboratively with communities, NTI and the Nunavut RCMP, we continue to strive for a justice system that builds trust, promotes community well-being, and ensures that all Nunavummiut feel heard, valued and protected.”

While the report focused on 2022-23 and earlier, since then the GN has continued to take steps to help improve public safety in Nunavut. Current initiatives include working with the RCMP to shift the focus toward community policing through the First Nations and Inuit Policing Program, with the first community policing positions deployed in Iqaluit and Cambridge Bay in late 2024 and early 2025. The Department of Justice is also working to implement civilian oversight to investigate serious incidents involving police, including the possibility of appointing cultural advisors to assist an investigative body.

Additionally, the GN is in support of the RCMP’s recent efforts to improve public safety, transparency and accountability. This includes enhancing crisis intervention and de-escalation methods and training, equipping officers with less lethal policing tools, introducing body-worn cameras, and increasing referrals to restorative justice and therapeutic justice programs.

Contact

Stephen Shaddock
Director, Policy and Planning
Department of Justice
867-975-6316
sshaddock1@gov.nu.ca

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