NRI receives $11 million for new facilities!

Nunavut Research Institute (NRI) is set for a total overhaul, thanks to $11 million in new federal funding.

Indian and Northern Affairs Minister Chuck Strahl made the announcement March 31 at a press conference in Iqaluit.

“We’re extremely excited to have this opportunity to build infrastructure that will support the High Arctic research initiative, as well as provide opportunities for Northerners to train in the scientific field,” said Mary Ellen Thomas, senior research officer at NRI.

NRI was one of a handful of successful Nunavut applicants for the Arctic Research Infrastructure Funds. These were announced as part of the federal government’s economic stimulus package earlier this year.

Nunavut Member of Parliament Leona Aglukkaq looks on as Indian and Northern Affairs
Minister Chuck Strahl announces new funding for research facilities in Iqaluit in April 2009.

The new research facility will consist of two buildings, and is expected to be complete by March 2011. NRI’s current building – which has not seen any significant upgrade for 30 years – will be torn down.

Strahl, who toured the research institute last month, especially noted the need for a new research and resource library.

Aside from this, the buildings will house over 15 offices, four modern laboratories, classrooms, conference rooms and computer rooms.

"These facilities will provide the necessary space for researchers and NRI staff to enhance and improve research capacity in Iqaluit and Nunavut," Thomas said. NRI also intends to lodge Nunavut Arctic College’s Environmental Technology Program. The site will enable students and visiting scientists to meet and work together on a variety of research projects.

Other successful Nunavut projects include the Government of Nunavut’s fisheries and sealing division, which will receive up to $1,874,560 for a research vessel, and Queen’s University, which will receive up to $500,000 to upgrade the M’Clintock Channel polar bear research cabins, near Gjoa Haven.