Maria Canton and Malcolm Gorrill
Northern News Services

Kugluktuk ( Jun 12/00) - Joanne Taptuna was in Iqaluit the day Donald Havioyak resigned as minster of Culture, Language, Elders and Youth (CLEY).

As the mayor of Kugluktuk, Havioyak's riding, Taptuna was more than a little confused and curious.

"At the time I was very surprised and wondering why he did it, but after he explained everything to me, I understood," said Taptuna.

"He said he felt muted in the cabinet when it came to issues involving Kugluktuk -- we've noticed a big difference with him working from his office in the community, people like it."

And to that end, Havioyak says he's doing a better job as MLA for Kugluktuk since resigning from the cabinet in March.

"I needed to work more closely with my constituents. I was not doing (that) while a minister, because of my travel and trying to concentrate on a new department," Havioyak said.

"I learned later there were some concerns that I was not responding to.

Working from his office in the Kitikmeot community, Havioyak is visible and active.

He feels as though he has become more effective in addressing community concerns.

The change hasn't gone unnoticed by members of the community.

Larry Adjun, chairperson of the Hunters and Trappers Organization in Kugluktuk, said Havioyak has been doing a good job since returning to a regular MLA position.

"The community is happy with him so far. We have no problem with him stepping down," said Adjun, who is also vice president of the Kitikmeot Hunters and Trappers Association.

"He's done a lot more community visits."