NR 05-32 ORD ENG Uriash Puqiqnak.doc

(August 31, 2005 – Cambridge Bay, Nunavut) Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. 1st Vice-President and Vice-President of Finance James Eetoolook today congratulated Uriash Puqiqnak on his appointment as a Member to the Order of Canada. Her Excellency the Right Honourable Governor-General Adrienne Clarkson made the announcement from Ottawa yesterday.

NTI is pleased to learn that Mr. Puqiqnak’s political contributions were acknowledged by the Governor-General, and that he was bestowed with such a national honour, said Eetoolook. The commitment he expressed during his term as a Member of Nunavut’s Legislative Assembly, in municipal politics, and to the international arts community as a world renowned carver benefits all Nunavummiut, said Eetoolook.

Mr. Puqiqnak was elected to the Nunavut Legislative Assembly on Feb. 15, 1999, by the people of Gjoa Haven and Taloyoak, to represent the Nattilik Riding in Nunavut’s historical first election. Aside from his role as Deputy Speaker in the Legislative Assembly, Mr. Puqiqnak served as Co-Chair of the Standing Committee on Health and Education, and was a member of the Standing Committee on Community Empowerment and Sustainable Development and the Standing Committee on Rules, Procedures and Privileges.

He also played an active role in his home community of Gjoa Haven, which included a five-year term as Mayor from 1991 to 1996. He served as Chair for both the Gjoa Haven Hunters and Trappers Association, and the Nunavut Tourism Board, and he was a member of the Maliiganik Tukisiiniarvik and the Economic Development Boards.

This is a proud day for Inuit, said Eetoolook.

For further information:

Kerry McCluskey
Director of Communications
Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated
Tel: (867) 975-4914
Cell: (867) 975-1337
Toll-free: 1-888-646-0006