John Thompson
Northern News Services

Iqaluit (June 13/05) - A new chief negotiator has been appointed to represent Inuit during negotiations with the federal government for implementation of the land claims agreement.

Charlie Evalik has been appointed by Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI) to resume a new round of talks, which have been at a standstill for many months.

"I feel honoured," Evalik said from Ottawa last week, where he met with his federal counterparts during his first week on the job.

He said it's too early to say how negotiations will fare, but he's cautiously optimistic that talks will move forward again.

One reason is the recent appointment of Thomas Berger as conciliator for the negotiations.

"He's got experience and credibility," he said. "I think he'll be listened to when he completes (his report) this fall."

Prior to his appointment, Evalik served as president of the Kitikmeot Inuit Association for nine years, until he finished his term this April.

Joe Adla Kunuk was previously appointed to be chief negotiator, but he recently accepted a new role as chief executive officer of NTI.

The major obstacles during the negotiations have been the implementation of Article 23, which calls for proportional employment of Inuit in government, and increased funding for regulatory bodies like the wildlife management and water boards.