One-day session for new legislature

The lighting of a qulliq, singing and drum-dancing by Aqsarniit Middle School students, plus a welcome from Nunavut Commissioner Peter Irniq launched the second session of the new Nunavut legislature.

In his address Irniq reminded the assembly of its role in defending “freedom of speech and debate” and reflecting traditional Inuit values. He said the MLAs will face the challenge of managing economic prosperity and self-reliance for Nunavut.

The legislature won’t get down to business until it reconvenes on May 12 in Iqaluit.

However, during their first appearance in the House, MLAs made statements thanking their constituents.

“I have lots of enemies,” Rankin Inlet North MLA Tagak Curley said. “You have to be brave to continue to stand up for yourself.”

Curley later asked for a recorded vote in support of a resolution calling for a “unity of purpose” and commitment to work together regardless of faith, language or sex.

The resolution was supported by all the MLAs, with the exception of Iqaluit Centre MLA Hunter Tootoo, who was not present during the call for the vote.

The appointments of the premier, speaker, MLAs and executive council members were also formally approved by resolutions.

As well, several other positions were confirmed. The deputy speaker for the legislature is Nanulik MLA Patterk Netser, while the deputy chairs of the committee of the whole are Uqqummiut MLA James Arreak, and Kugluktuk MLA Joe Allen Evyagotailak.

Management and service board appointees are Rankin Inlet North MLA Tagak Curley, Pangnirtung MLA Peter Kilabuk, Cambridge Bay MLA Keith Peterson and Iqaluit Centre MLA Hunter Tootoo.

Curley, Tootoo and Peterson will also chair committees struck to deal with particular legislation or concerns.