DATE ISSUED: April 27, 2021
EVENT: QIA suspends the Compassionate Bereavement program in light of
COVID-19 outbreak in Iqaluit and Kinngait

The Qikiqtani Inuit Association (QIA) is suspending the Compassionate Bereavement program until further notice. This decision was made in response to instructions from public health authorities to stop all non-essential travel to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 throughout the Qikiqtani Region

QIA staff are working with families currently travelling under our Compassionate Bereavement program to ensure that they are supported. If appropriate QIA will assist Inuit to get back home in the safest possible manner.

Anyone who has left Iqaluit on or after April 7, 2021 is asked by public health authorities to self-isolate for 14 days and self-monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 such as a fever, cough or difficulty breathing.

Family members and those living with people who are self-isolating, but did not travel themselves should self-monitor, limit non-essential outings and practice social distancing and always wear a mask while in public.

The best protection against COVID-19 in the Qikiqtani region is the Moderna vaccine. It is safe, effective and our best defense against the virus. If you are over 18 there is still time to book your appointment at your local health centre.

Currently, there are 49 positive cases of COVID-19 in the territory. Limiting travel will go a long way to help save Inuit lives and protect Qikiqtani communities.

As conditions are changing rapidly, QIA will be revisiting and reassessing decisions regarding our operations and program delivery regularly to best meet the needs of Qikiqtani Inuit.

For more information, please contact:

Will Hopkins,
Acting Director of Communications
Qikiqtani Inuit Association
whopkins@qia.ca
876.975.8413 or
1.800.667.2742