Nunavut Tunngavik Vice-President James Eetoolook today extended congratulations to the Baffin Fisheries Coalition on their recent purchase of the MV Sivulliq. The fishing vessel is 100 per cent Inuit owned.

“The purchase of this vessel will have a significant and long-term impact on Nunavut’s overall economy,” said Eetoolook. “This will enable Inuit to have full control over fishing the quota we hold in waters that are adjacent to Nunavut. This will create much needed jobs and will enable Inuit to further participate in the territory’s developing fishery.”

The freezer factory trawler will be used to fish turbot and shrimp.

“Nunavut Land Claims Agreement Article 15.3.7 calls for Inuit to have access to fish quotas in adjacent waters as a means to achieve economic independence. This brings us a step closer to implementation of that article,” said Eetoolook.