Research

Research Guidelines for Nunatsiavut
The Nunatsiavut Government (NG) receives numerous requests each year from universities, and other researchers to conduct research in Nunatsiavut. Any research conducted in Nunatsiavut or with Labrador Inuit should happen only with the full knowledge and participation of the NG, and first and foremost, the Labrador Inuit Community.

In order to ensure that any research conducted involves working together to answer research questions of mutual interest for the benefit of Nunatsiavut, a standard set of Nunatsiavut Research Guidelines is being developed.

Until the guidelines are completed, we ask any researcher who has a request to conduct research in Nunatsiavut to follow an interim research process click here for link.

Please click here to contact the Nunatsiavut Inuit Research Advisor, John Lampe if you require more information.

Current Research projects
Current research taking place in Nunatsiavut includes:

• Baseline Inventory and Comparative Assessment of Three Fiord Based Marine Ecosystems – Understanding the Effects of Climate Change and Modernization in a Northern Marine Environment (funded by ArcticNet)
   
• Terrestrial Ecosystem Study and Site Delineation at the Former Military Site in Hopedale

Environmental Protection and Monitoring
The Environmental Protection and Monitoring work of the Nunatsiavut Government stems from the years of experience and groundwork laid by the Labrador Inuit Association, and applies local expertise to work towards a more sustainable and precautionary way of undertaking activities of all kinds on Inuit Lands. Environmental Monitors are employed full time at the Voisey's Bay Mine and Mill site and our Environmental Protection Analyst carries out inspections of works sites, primarily those in the mineral exploration industry. Nunatsiavut Government also continues to focus on training and education of its beneficiaries for environmental careers and when possible, integrates these opportunities in its day to day work.

Fisheries
Nunatsiavut Government has to manage both the subsistence and commercial fisheries in Nunatsiavut. The Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement provides clear direction with respect to the Inuit Domestic Harvest. The health of fish stocks are a serious concern to Inuit. Nunatsiavut Government will continue to support initiatives such as the counting fence project at English River. Future research is needed to complement Inuit knowledge when making management recommendations.

The commercial fishery is still an important economic engine in Nunatsiavut. Species, equipment and processing methods have changed from historic times, but Inuit have adapted. In today's global economy, partnerships are ever important. Strategic partnerships for harvesting and processing with Inuit from other parts of Canada are a natural fit.