Christine Kay
Northern News Services

Iqaluit (Nov 18/02) - There are fears the bylaw keeping sled dogs out of certain parts of town may be keeping Inuit culture out at the same time.

Iqaluit city council will soon revisit a bylaw passed in October designating specific areas for dog teams around the capital.

The decision came after several councillors criticized the law for ignoring Inuit culture.

"All too often, Inuit in the community seem to get left out and I think that's what has happened here," said Deputy Mayor Kirt Ejesiak.

The city has worked for four years to deal with dog teams in the community. The animals became an issue after the mauling death of a six-year-old girl in March 1998.

Since deciding only certain areas in town can be used for sled dogs, councillors have received mixed reactions. Coun. Stu Kennedy said that's why he wants to bring it back to the table.

Coun. Keith Irving said limiting the designated areas is eroding Iqaluit's cultural heritage.