The government of Canada is putting $77 million into a new, multi-use small craft harbour for Arctic Bay, Nunavut. This will provide critical infrastructure to support commercial fishing in the region, as well as access to economic opportunities, cultural activities, marine transportation and tourism.
The announcement was made by Nunavut Member of Parliament Lori Idlout on behalf of Minister of Fisheries Joanne Thompson.
‘The development of the Arctic Bay Small Craft Harbour is a significant achievement for Inuit in the Qikiqtani Region and for the future of our waters. Supporting our communities by investing in small craft harbours provides safe havens for boats and marine safety for Inuit,’ Lori Idlout said.
‘The commitment to Arctic Bay is a key role of SINAA’s stewardship program, ensuring our guardians have access to marine resources that mitigate food insecurity while enabling country food sovereignty and security. We are helping ensure that conservation is shaped by Inuit priorities, Inuit knowledge, and Inuit stewardship, while creating lasting benefits for our communities.’
Public Services and Procurement Canada has awarded the construction contract for the Arctic Bay small craft harbour to Pilitak Enterprises Ltd. of Iqaluit, Nunavut. The contract includes an Inuit benefits plan to support local training and employment. Construction began in August 2026 and will continue until 2029, with the harbour anticipated to be operational by the open-water season of 2030.
The new harbour will include the construction of a breakwater, launch ramp, fixed wharf for larger vessels, and float wharves for small craft vessels, as well as dredging for the harbour basin and the entrance channel.
‘Harvesters and hunters in Arctic Bay will have a safe place to launch and tie up, with shelter, a safe area to unload, electricity and better access to the water. In a northern community, a harbour is how people reach the water they live on. This will support fishing, hunting and the movement of goods and people for years to come,’ Minister Joanne Thompson said.
‘The Government of Canada is firmly committed to working in partnership with Indigenous communities to create real economic opportunities. Today’s announcement of the contract and construction of the small craft harbour in Arctic Bay shows we’re acting on that commitment. Inuit-owned firm, Pilitak Enterprises Limited is bringing its expertise to the project that will help to develop Nunavummiut workers, grow the Nunavut economy and strengthen Canada’s north.’
