Kirsten Murphy
Northern News Services

Iqaluit (Sep 24/01) - The territorial government will spend $3.5 million to hire 14 new RCMP officers for six detachments in Nunavut.

Premier Paul Okalik, who holds the justice portfolio, made the announcement last week. The money follows a summer of understaffed and temporarily vacant detachments in Sanikiluaq, Kuugaarruk and Rankin Inlet.

Contrary to early reports, all new positions are for communities. No new members will be stationed in Iqaluit, said V-division district officer Jim MacDougall.

"This is a great relief to RCMP members and members of the community," said MacDougall. "Now people will get the police presence they deserve."

However, the money doesn't take effect until April 1 -- the start of the 2002 fiscal year. That means officers won't arrive until next spring. The delay raised the eyebrows of Cpl. Daniel Mayer in Kimmirut. Mayer is the community's lone police officer.

"Housing is a huge obstacle in this community," said. "Realistically it could be next fall or 2003 before anyone arrives."

Mayer said the additional staff member is needed. "It will be much appreciated because it will allow us to be more proactive in our police work."

MacDougall said both new recruits and housing are being actively sought.

The other one-person detachments slated for a second officer are Grise Fiord and Kuugaarruk.

Cambridge Bay, Qurluqtuq and Arviat will each receive an additional officer.

Plans are underway to open and staff a new two-person detachment in Repulse Bay with the money. Rankin Inlet polices the community when called upon.