CHESTERFIELD INLET, Nunavut – The deaths of two young residents at a care home in Chesterfield Inlet, Nunavut, have sparked multiple investigations, including one by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). One of the deceased was 12 years old at the time of their passing, while the other was 19. These critical incidents have prompted a comprehensive examination by the Nunavut government and have left officials working to relocate the remaining patients out of the Naja Isabelle Home.
According to Margaret Nakashuk, Nunavut’s minister of family services, three individuals were hospitalized following the critical incidents, and tragically, two of them didn’t survive. The Nunavut coroner’s office has confirmed the deaths and has vowed to review the circumstances surrounding the 19-year-old’s passing, which occurred outside the territory.
The Naja Isabelle Home, operated by the Pimakslirvik Corporation, cares for children and adults under the age of 40 with specialized medical needs from across Nunavut. CEO Marc Ippiak expressed surprise at the minister’s statements and criticized the government for not allowing the corporation to review the investigation findings before making public statements about the facility.
In response to the situation, the Nunavut government has launched a meticulous examination of the care provided at the group home, enlisting the help of the Representative for Children and Youth and an outside legal team to investigate the quality of care at the facility. The RCMP has also been called in to assist with the investigation at the government’s request.
This heartbreaking turn of events has sparked concern and prompted a determined effort by officials to thoroughly investigate and address the circumstances surrounding the deaths and the care provided at the Naja Isabelle Home. The Nunavut government and other relevant agencies are committed to uncovering the truth, ensuring accountability, and taking necessary actions to prevent similar incidents in the future.