IKALUKTUTIAK/CAMBRIDGE BAY - Abuse of alcohol and drugs is an issue the Kitikmeot Inuit Association and communities need to deal with so youths can seek employment and training, said KIA president Charlie Evalik.

The regional Inuit association held its annual general meeting in Cambridge Bay earlier this month and Evalik said alcohol and drugs are a social issue that all communities must confront.

"That's an issue that needs to be dealt with so that young people, especially, could start to seek employment training, business opportunities, involvement in any sector," he said. "It's an issue, yes, but I think the community has got to take a lead, along with the partnership with the Inuit organizations or the Government of Nunavut."

Evalik said delegates also discussed lands and beneficiary services, communications, opportunities in the mining sector and the Nunavut Resources Corporation during the meeting.

"Young people have got to seek those opportunities, apply themselves and education is the key to participation in all these sectors, including mining, oil and gas, as well as Nunavut Resources Corporation," he said. "The message that we are trying to put forth to our beneficiaries is that we want to apply ourselves in terms of opportunities. The message is it's got to be dealt with, one way or another."

Kitikmeot Corporation president Charlie Lyall said the corporation's future is "very bright."

"(With) the mining industry happening in the region. You can only take advantage of it," he said.

We welcome your opinions. Click here to e-mail a letter to the editor.