Rankin Inlet has new funding distribution system for helping hunters
Kirsten Murphy
Northern News Services
Rankin Inlet (Apr 04/01) - When it comes to helping hunters, Rankin Inlet Hunters and Trappers Association say the luck of the draw is the way to go.
The names of 84 hunters vying for portions of $94,500 in harvest support -- to get needed equipment -- from Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated went into a draw last week. Ten names were chosen and read over the radio last Monday.
Rankin Inlet's seven-member HTO used to screen applicants and decide who received funding. But some hunters complained saying that the system favoured some and excluded others, said Donna Adams, Rankin Inlet HTO vice-president since October.
"The old system raised controversy and uneasiness. (Some people felt) decisions were being made behind closed doors," Adams said.
Under the new system, applicants must still meet certain guidelines to qualify. A random selection creates a fair and equitable distribution of hunting and trapping goods, Adams said.
Hunters and trappers who are unable to afford equipment such as snowmobiles, ATVs, boats and motors are eligible to apply. Requests most not exceed $12,000. Harvesters receive requested equipment, not money.
If any money remains after the 10 requests are filled, that it will be used for another draw later this year. HTOs in 27 communities and outpost camps throughout Nunavut receive harvester support funding from NTI. Distribution systems may vary from community to community.
Gabriel Nirlungayuk, harvest support trainer with NTI was in Winnipeg, Man., at press time and unavailable for comment.
