Nunavut gov't reverses decision to end children’s group home services in Iqaluit

The Angirraq Corporation was set to close two group homes this week because of a contract dispute with the territory. That could have forced some children and youth in care to be moved out of the territory.

Nunavut gov't reverses decision to end children’s group home services in Iqaluit Department of Family Services has agreed to 1-year contract extension with operator of 2 group homes Nunavut's Department of Family Services has reversed its earlier decision to end a contract with the operator of several children and youth care facilities in Iqaluit. The Angirraq Corporation was set to close two group homes this week because of a contract dispute with the territory. That could have forced some children and youth in care to be moved out of the territory.

In a news release Wednesday, the department announced it reached an agreement with Angirraq to provide services until March 2027. “The extension ensures children and youth will continue to receive uninterrupted group home and support services,” the department said. Angirraq provides respite services for children and youth under the department’s care.

Sakhile Sibanda, Angirraq’s managing director, said the decision is a huge relief for the seven affected youth, their families, and the company’s 37 staff members. “The youth were in celebratory mode. We hadn't done grocery shopping, so we went grocery shopping

and they were getting all sorts of things to celebrate tonight – that they are staying at their home,” she said. The news release says the department, alongside Angirraq, will conduct a joint review of program delivery and financial arrangements to ensure affected youth remain supported. Sibanda said the terms of the contract remain the same, and the discussions have become more respectful.

She also said the department has created room for negotiating more funding to avoid the company having to pay for expenses out of pocket. “I believe we worked collaboratively for the interests of the youth ... and for stability and their families as well,” she said. CBC News has contacted the Department of Family Services but did not receive a reply before publication.