QIA sues Kilabuk for back rent

KIRSTEN MURPHY

The Qikiqtani Inuit Association is suing past president Meeka Kilabuk for at least five months of back rent.

Kilabuk, who was president of QIA from December 2000 to September 2001, refuses to leave QIA staff housing until the board reviews her suspension and firing. She alleges the action taken by QIA violates the corporation’s bylaws.

A statement of claim filed by QIA with the Nunavut Court of Justice says Kilabuk should pay backdated rent, court costs and “further and other relief as this Honourable Court may deem just.”

This could run into thousands of dollars. According to information from the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency, Kilabuk’s housing benefit was $867 per month in 2001, the statement says.

When reached at QIA staff housing this week, Kilabuk would not say how long she plans to stay.

Meanwhile, QIA is shelling out a housing allowance for its appointed president Thomasie Alikatuktuk.

QIA’s lawyer, Sylvie Molgat, from the law firm Dubuc and Osland, called the expenditure a “substantial cost.” Her comments were made in civil court on Feb. 7. Molgat attended the hearing via telephone conference call.

Kilabuk, who was without counsel at the hearing, has until Feb. 22 to get a lawyer.

Documents filed with the statement of claim say Kilabuk was asked to leave the apartment at least 10 days after her Sept. 19 dismissal.

A letter dated Oct. 1 and signed by then acting QIA president Thomasie Alikatuktuk says: “As you are no longer president of QIA, we are hereby providing you with written notice to vacate the house.”

Another letter from Alikatuktuk, dated Dec. 18, states Kilabuk indicated she would leave the house.

“You did not vacate the premises by Oct. 21, 2001. You have since had many discussions with QIA’s executive director [Terry Audla] and in each instance you provided a date that you would vacate staff housing. We have even sent boxes to you to help with your move.”

The case returns to civil court on Feb. 22.