Rankin Inlet (Dec 22/04) - People in Baker, a non-restricted community, voted on Dec. 13 for a liquor education committee for the first time in the community's history.

This means once people get a permit to get liquor, that order must be reviewed by a seven-person committee before the order is made.

"I hope it will make a difference," said Elizabeth Quinangnaq, municipal lands officer in Baker Lake.

About 450 people voted in the plebiscite, she said.

Seven members were elected for the alcohol education committee: Jean Pudnak, Freddie Oovayuk, Elijah Amarook, Barbara Bevridge, Lynda Lafontaine, Lucy Niego, Dody Qiyuk.

The group will hold monthly meetings starting after New Years.

Quinangnaq said she doesn't drink, so the fact the community will now be screening people who want booze doesn't bother her.

But she said she certainly hopes the new elected committee will do a good job.

Over in Whale Cove, residents voted in favour of keeping liquor prohibited.