Former Kugluktuk MLA dies

Donald Havioyak, a former MLA and past president of the Kitikmeot Inuit Association, has died.

His death was announced Monday in a statement from Speaker David Joanasie.

“Mr. Havioyak served as a minister during the first government and was a well-respected advocate for the preservation and promotion of Inuinnaqtun,” Joanasie said.

Havioyak’s career in the territorial public service started in 1999, when he was elected to represent the Kugluktuk riding. He served in that position until 2004. He also served as president of Kitikmeot Inuit Association from 2005 to 2008.

He received the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002.

“On behalf of all members of the legislative assembly, we extend our condolences to his family,” Joanasie said in his statement.

Kuglukguk’s flag outside of the legislative assembly building Iqaluit was lowered to half-mast in his honour, the statement added.

Kitikmeot Inuit Association also sent out condolences, recognizing Havioyak for his “legacy of public service and advocacy for Inuit language.”

The legislative assembly and KIA announcements did not say how old Havioyak was or share his cause of death. Nunatsiaq News was unable to reach family for comment.