- Am I required to provide my services in Inuktut if I own a private business in Nunavut?
Yes. Any organization operating in Nunavut – including private businesses – must provide basic services and communications to the public in Inuktut, in addition to any other languages used.
- What services or documents must be available in Inuktut?
Businesses must provide, among others:
- public signage (signs, posters, emergency and exit signs).
- commercial advertising and posters.
- reception and client/customer services.
Suppose you offer essential services (such as health, hospitality, food, housing, water, electricity, fuel, or telecommunications). In that case, you must also translate bills, notices, menus, instructions, and warnings clearly and understandably.
- What if my business cannot immediately meet all these obligations?
You may submit an Accommodation Request to the Office of the Languages Commissioner of Nunavut. This mechanism allows organizations to propose alternative measures or a more realistic timeline when immediate compliance would cause undue hardship.
- Who can request accommodation?
Only private sector organizations are eligible to apply. Municipalities and public bodies cannot request accommodation.
- Do I need an Inuit Language Plan before requesting accommodation?
Yes. All accommodation requests must be accompanied by an approved or updated Inuit Language plan.
