March 26 voting day for Makivik beneficiaries

About 4,700 Nunavimmiut will be eligible to vote in next Friday’s election for a new vice-president of their birthright organization, Makivik Corporation.

Beneficiaries of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement who over 18 can vote at polling stations set up in every community, including Chisasibi, at either the landholding corporation or municipal offices from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on March 26.

Eligible voters in Montreal can vote at a polling station at the Montreal Inuit Association’s office in Lachine, or at a mobile poll for Nunavimmiut receiving medical treatment.

Those living in the South outside of Montreal, in correctional centres or working on shrimp boats, may vote by proxy — but they should check with their local landholding or hamlet office first, suggests Adamie Padlayat, the returning officer for Makivik’s election.

Votes for two vacant board positions have already been held, Padlayat said, with Mark Papigatuk Sr. elected in Salluit and Charlie Fleming in Chisasibi.

George Berthe was elected by acclamation for a third term as corporate secretary of Makivik.