NR 00-25 SUS ENG Suspension of President.doc

Iqaluit, Nunavut (October 31, 2000) The Board of Directors of Nunavut Tunngavik Inc (NTI) has suspended President Paul Quassa, effective October 31. The action was taken at a special meeting of the Board held by teleconference on the afternoon and evening of October 27, 2000.

The Board of Nunavut Tunngavik has an obligation to the Beneficiaries of the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement to ensure that the interests of NTI, and of the Inuit of Nunavut, are protected, said James Eetoolook, First Vice President of NTI. That is our first priority and our most important responsibility. Paul Quassa has taken actions that run counter to those interests. Until those actions are adequately explained, and appropriate steps are taken to correct the situation, the Board felt, and the President agreed, that suspension was warranted.

Paul Quassa is working hard and tirelessly on behalf of our people, continued Eetoolook. He is making important contributions to the future of Inuit in Nunavut. We must keep that in mind.

The Board voted unanimously to temporarily suspend the President because of irregularities over the past few months in his use and reporting of petty cash, travel expenses and an NTI credit card.

Quassa has been given until November 6, 2000 to consider his options and the Board will meet at that time to hear his proposals to address their concerns. Until a decision is made, James Eetoolook, First Vice President of NTI, will be Acting President.

For further information:

Alan R. Vigoda
Director of Communications
Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.
Iqaluit, NU
Tel: (867) 975-4900 Paul Irngaut
Executive Liaison & Public Relations Advisor
Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.
Iqaluit, NU
Tel: (867) 975-4900

NTI Media Releases are posted to our web site: https://www.tunngavik.com