Land Administration
Category I lands on which Northern Villages are located belong to the Landholding Corporations. It is essential to obtain their prior authorization for any use of these lands, whether for construction projects, temporary exterior storage, construction camps, or mineral extraction activities. This authorization may take the form of a resolution, a letter, or a surface rights title established through a land lease. At all times, the Landholding Corporation remains the owner of the land. This section provides an overview of the procedure to follow for development projects on Category I lands. For more detailed information, please refer to the “Guide for Construction in Nunavik”.
Protecting Nunavik’s Archaeological Heritage
Archaeological remains are unique, non-renewable cultural resources that must be safeguarded as part of Nunavik’s heritage. As communities continue to grow, the demand for new development areas and granular material increases, often extending projects into previously untouched lands. Many of these areas have never been studied archaeologically, which increases the likelihood of encountering cultural heritage resources.
Before authorizing or beginning any new development activity, both the Landholding Corporation and the Northern Village must ensure that the site has been assessed for its archaeological potential, in collaboration with qualified experts and the appropriate heritage authorities.
Promoters and contractors are also encouraged to take archaeological considerations into account early in the planning process. Conducting preventive archaeological assessments helps safeguard valuable cultural resources, ensures compliance with heritage protection laws, and avoids costly delays or legal issues once development is underway.