Kerry McCluskey
Northern News Services

Cape Dorset (June 03/02) - Sustainable Development Minister Olayuk Akesuk still owes Cape Dorset's Housing Association rent.

The debt stems from the period in Akesuk's life when he lived in public housing prior to his election as MLA and his assumption of duties as the minister of Sustainable Development.

Art Stewart, the hamlet's senior administrator, would not reveal the amount of money owed by Akesuk.

"There is monies owed," Stewart said. "But I'm not going to discuss anybody's personal account," he said.

Akesuk, who is currently in Cape Dorset, has gone in to see Stewart to set up a payment schedule for the back rent.

"He's in town. I talked to him and he said he'd be in this week to make payment arrangements with us," said Stewart.

Akesuk declined to comment on the matter.

Stewart also said an accounts receivable committee was formed recently and is in the process of looking into the rent that is owed the hamlet.