Quebec flatly denies Nunavik's plea for restructuring the EIB (Energy Information Bureau).
Rewritten Article:
The Public Security Minister's office stands firm in their support of the Bureau of Independent Investigations (BEI), deflecting a request from the Kativik Administration for reforms. The office believes the BEI plays a crucial role in building public trust through their thorough, impartial investigations, following citizen deaths during police interventions.
In a response to Le Devoir, the ministry stated that a new director general has been appointed, whom they have faith in. They emphasize the importance of allowing investigations to proceed, as the BEI maintains independence.
The stance comes after 16 lives lost in Nunavik due to police interventions since 2016, causing a decline in trust in both police and the BEI in the region beyond the 55th parallel. Nunavik leaders call for reforms to improve the transparency and responsiveness of BEI investigations in the region.
Meanwhile, Ian Lafrenière, the Minister responsible for relations with First Nations and Inuit, aims to boost Inuit representation in the police force by relaunching the cadet program. Lafrenière expressed sympathy towards the families, loved ones, and communities affected by these events, believing the step can help strengthen public trust in the Nunavik Police Service (NPS).
The recent spate of tragedies has led to significant criticism of the NPS, with Inuit organizations such as Makivvik Corporation and the Kativik Regional Government describing policing in the area as "broken." Their demands tackle the need for greater transparency in investigations, cultural sensitivity, and de-escalation, and BEI reforms.
Community efforts are underway, with local authorities in Kangiqsualujjuaq organizing grief and trauma counseling, and vowing to support families and speak out throughout the investigation process.
Also read:
- 16 Lives Lost in Police Interventions since 2016
Suggestions:
- Minister's Ministry Doubles Down on Support for BEI
- Calls for Police Accountability Amidst Inquest Demands
- Government Vows to Uplift Indigenous Representation in Police Force
Related Info:
- In May 2025, an Inuk man lost his life after a confrontation with Nunavik Police Service officers in Kangiqsualujjuaq, following a warrant execution. The situation escalated after the man was pepper sprayed, resulting in a stun gun deployment and subsequent fatal shooting, sparking community outrage.
- Prominent Inuit organizations, including the Makivvik Corporation and the Kativik Regional Government, have been vocal about the need for police reform, focusing on improving transparency, cultural sensitivity, and revamping the Bureau des enquêtes indépendantes (BEI) for greater trust and effectiveness.
- The BEI has launched investigations into the Kangiqsualujjuaq shooting and the earlier Salluit incident, while refraining from commenting further during the ongoing probes.
- The Minister's Ministry remains convinced about the crucial role of the Bureau des enquêtes indépendantes (BEI) in promoting public trust, despite calls for reform, especially in the context of policy-and-legislation and general news surrounding police interventions in the region beyond the 55th parallel.
- Amongst the escalating demands for police accountability and cultural sensitivity, the government implements initiatives like boosting Indigenous representation in the police force, such as relaunching the cadet program, aiming to increase transparency and faith in the Nunavik Police Service (NPS).
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