Jennifer McPhee
Northern News Services

Iqaluit (Jan 28/02) - The city is compiling a list of Iqaluit residents willing to put up tourists during the 2002 Arctic Winter Games.

Because local hotels and the AWG Host Society are fully booked, games organizers have asked the city to create a host database.

But the city will assume no other responsibilities besides gathering names.

"Every spare corner of Iqaluit is earmarked," said the society's general manager Kim Wasylyshen. She added they receive between five and 10 requests for space every day over the Internet alone.

Residents can collect up to $80 per night from their guests, but must abide by a set of 10 health requirements. For example, hosts have to clean and disinfect bathrooms -- which must not be carpeted -- daily.

The city offered a similar service during the April 1, 1999, division ceremonies.

The city's economic development officer, Cheri Kemp-Kinnear, said last week the list of requirements is considerably shorter this time around.

"More than 50 per cent of people pulled out last time because of regulations," she told a city council meeting.

Still, Coun. Chris Wilson said the regulations too strict.

"My bathroom's not that clean," he said.

Wilson suggested the city create two lists, one of which would guarantee a nice clean place to guests. The other would offer guest the opportunity to "spin the wheel and take a chance."

Council voted to have one list.

Nunavut environmental health specialist Bruce Trotter said inspectors won't enforce the requirements due to a lack of staff. In Nunavut, there are four environmental health officers. Iqaluit currently has one.

"It would be impossible," he said. Details are still sketchy, but Trotter said "people will have to indicate in writing that they are in compliance."