Malcolm Gorrill
Northern News Services

Inuvik (Aug 31/01) - A former president of the Gwich'in Tribal Council offered support, and advice, last week to the current leaders.

Richard Nerysoo was president until last fall, when he lost an election to Fred Carmichael. Nerysoo said he respects Carmichael.

Nerysoo spoke during the council's 18th annual general assembly. Addressing Carmichael and the board of directors, Nerysoo said he supports them all, but will disagree with them on occasion.

In fact, Nerysoo took the opportunity to offer some advice. He said he can understand the importance of development corporations, but that private businesses must also be encouraged.

"Without a good private business opportunity, a lot of the issues, a lot of the opportunities for employment aren't going to be there," Nerysoo said.

He urged other Gwich'in to support their leaders.

"We can't sit around the table and condemn each other and then think we're going to walk out the door as a united community, a united nation."

For his part, Carmichael said he welcomed Nerysoo's comments and the comments other people were making. He said it was nice to see people bringing forth genuine concerns without trying to cut each other down.

"We're here to show the people that we are united," Carmichael said. "We want to work together for the betterment of our people."