Aggu MLA Joanna Quassa Advocates for Community Program Funding

Joanna Quassa, the incumbent Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Aggu, which encompasses part of Iglulik, has called for significant changes to the funding of community programs. Quassa emphasized the need for consistent financial support to ensure essential programs for elders and youth can operate year-round. She expressed concerns that the current funding formula jeopardizes these initiatives.

In her remarks to Nunavut News, Quassa stated, “Elder and youth program funding [should] be provided to community rather than through applications, so Community Wellness can have programs throughout [the] year without having to worry about funding.” This shift, she believes, would allow for a more stable and effective delivery of community services.

Quassa also highlighted the necessity for investment in safe community spaces, particularly for the most vulnerable residents. She proposed the establishment of shelters where individuals can feel secure when they need a place to go, rather than facing the uncertainty of being outdoors or feeling unwelcome in others’ homes.

Another key element of Quassa’s platform is job creation within the hamlet, especially in light of the Government of Nunavut’s decision to relocate certain positions away from Iglulik. She aims to replace those jobs and bolster local employment opportunities.

Despite outreach, fellow candidate Erasmus Ivvalu did not respond to inquiries from Nunavut News regarding his stance on these issues.

Residents of Aggu will have the opportunity to vote in advance polls from October 13 to 23 at the M&R Centre between noon and 7 p.m. On October 27, the main voting will occur at the Community Hall from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Quassa encourages community members to consider her proposals as they prepare to make their voices heard in the upcoming election.