Archived News Releases

News Release - Manitoba

November 19, 2015

Manitoba and Nunavut Extend Agreement

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Memorandum of Understanding to Cover Trade, Energy and Culture

The governments of Manitoba and Nunavut have agreed to extend a five-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) that ensures future collaboration on a number of far-reaching topics including health policy and program information sharing, and exploration of clean energy alternatives, Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger and Nunavut Premier Peter Taptuna announced today.

“We share many common goals, such as the protection of the environment, improved health care and the push for clean energy,” Premier Selinger said.  “We look forward to further strengthening this partnership because by working together, we can both become stronger.”

“Nunavut and Manitoba share more than a border; we share family, cultural, trade and transportation ties,” said Premier Taptuna.  “We are committed to working with our neighbours to enhance opportunities to Nunavummiut, and this memorandum of understanding helps strengthen co-operation in a number of key areas.”

The MOU includes the continued exploration of a transmission line between Manitoba and Nunavut, the possibility of a winter road and the development of improved trade through an Arctic gateway.

Also under the agreement, the Winnipeg Art Gallery (WAG) will become home to thousands of pieces of fine art from Nunavut and the gallery will develop special programming and educational opportunities through the display of the works.  Each government will provide up to $500,000 to support the research, documentation, and exhibition of this artwork.

“The Government of Nunavut has an incredible collection and the Winnipeg Art Gallery is pleased to provide it with a temporary home,” said Dr. Stephen Borys, director and CEO, WAG.  “Through in-house and touring exhibitions, we look forward to sharing these works with more people.  Thank you to the governments of Manitoba and Nunavut for making this possible.”

In addition, the province and territory have also committed to the strengthening of ties through education, sporting and cultural activities.

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The Province of Manitoba is distributing this release on behalf of the governments of Manitoba and Nunavut.