Review of NNI policy suggests changes

A review of the policy the Nunavut government uses to give preference to Inuit-owned firms when awarding contracts is recommending changes to shore up fairness and transparency.

The Nunavummi Nangminiqaqtunik Ikajuuti or NNI policy is meant to ensure Inuit-owned firms, Nunavut-based businesses and local businesses are given preference when awarding government contracts.

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An international law firm, Borden Ladner Gervais, conducted the review. It notes the NNI policy has issues that need to be addressed, but that it has also become a scapegoat for discontent with the Government of Nunavut's overall procurement practices.

It also echoes concerns raised by the auditor general of Canada's report last year on the GN's procurement practices.

The review makes a number of recommendations to change NNI including a new name for the policy, the establishment of a tribunal to monitor appeals, the creation of a new category for Inuit firms owned, managed and controlled by Inuit with profits going directly to the Inuit owners, and allowing the government to prohibit bids from a company for a set period of time if it has violations.

Ron Dewar, executive director for the NNI secretariat, says the government is looking for feedback on the review.

"It is complex so it takes time to read, but I think it's well worth it to read it," he said. "I encourage anyone who's interested in NNI policy to take time to read it. We'd like to hear what people think because we need take that feedback and incorporate into the next move."

The NNI policy is reviewed every five years to keep up with the changing economy in Nunavut.

Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. has criticized the government for not adhering to the policy when it comes to Inuit beneficiaries.