Kirsten Murphy
Northern News Services

Kimmirut (July 30/01) - One of two Quebec tourists attacked by a polar bear in Katannilik Park outside Kimmirut July 27 was released from Baffin Regional Hospital this weekend.

A 31-year old male remained at BRH following surgery for head and neck slash wounds. His 25-year-old girlfriend was released Saturday following treatment for less serious claw wounds. The couple and two friends were finishing a week-long canoe trip on the Soper River when the bear struck.

Department of Sustainable Development officials flew to Kimmirut within hours of the bloody confrontation. The park will remain closed until the bear is located and destroyed or is no longer within park boundaries.

"Our first concern is for the (injured) people. Secondly, we're gathering as much information as possible. We've got people in the field. We've got people charted out," said David Monteith, DSD parks director.

Stephen Atkinson, wildlife director for DSD, told reporters he had little hope of finding the injured animal.

Kimmirut residents were advised not to leave their homes Friday morning. Mayor Joe Arlooktoo said the advisory was lifted by the afternoon.

Early reports suggest the four tourists awoke to a polar bear attempting to enter their tents. One camper responded by stabbing the bear in its neck with a pocket knife. The foursome canoed towards Kimmirut and one man ran several kilometres for help.

Martha Padluq of the Mayukalik Hunters and Trappers Association could not be reached by press time.

The HTO is involved with the search.

Atkinson said a review of bear prevention information for park visitors was underway prior to the incident.