Nunavut MP Lori Idlout joins Liberal caucus

Nunavut Member of Parliament Lori Idlout says she is joining the governing Liberal Party of Canada caucus after what she described as “much personal reflection” and encouragement from supporters in her community.

In a statement released Tuesday, Idlout said the decision comes at what she called a critical moment for Nunavut and the North.

“Nunavut and the North are central to Canada’s future, and the rights and aspirations of Indigenous peoples must be at the heart of Canada’s democracy,” she said.

Idlout said residents of Nunavut have made it clear that the territory faces significant challenges, including rising living costs, housing shortages, food insecurity and the impacts of climate change.

She said she plans to work with Prime Minister Mark Carney and the federal government to ensure decisions affecting the territory are made in partnership with Nunavummiut.

“With new threats against our sovereignty and pressures on the wellbeing of people throughout the North, we need a strong and ambitious government that makes decisions with Nunavut — not only about Nunavut,” Idlout said.

Idlout added that Canada’s North is increasingly important to national security and sovereignty and that policies must reflect the culture, language and rights of Inuit and northern communities.

The Liberal Party of Canada welcomed Idlout’s decision, calling her a strong advocate for Nunavut.

Kirt Ejesiak, director of the Liberal Party in Nunavut, said the party is “deeply excited” to have Idlout join the caucus.

“Liberals in Nunavut know the importance of strong voices to stand up for our communities and for a strong, secure, and thriving North,” Ejesiak said in a statement.

He said Idlout is widely known as a champion for the territory and that the party looks forward to working with her on priorities such as addressing the high cost of living and improving quality of life for Nunavummiut.