KIA president takes six of seven hamlets
Darrell Greer
Northern News Services
Rankin Inlet (Dec 20/00) - Economic development is a top priority for Paul Kaludjak.
"The first things I'd like to see in the new year are the national park project in Wager Bay being signed off and mineral exploration moving forward in Rankin Inlet and Baker Lake," says Kaludjak, who was elected to his third term as Kivalliq Inuit Association president last week.
"We want to get these off the ground and start bringing some new money into the Kivalliq Region."
Kaludjak says he was pleased with the overall numbers in the Dec. 11 election, but surprised he didn't do better in Rankin.
Kaludjak nudged out Tongola Sandy by 12 votes in Rankin, collecting 215 votes to Sandy's 203.
"I didn't expect Tongola (Sandy) to give me such a run in Rankin.
"However, the fact both vice-president Donat Milortok (Repulse Bay) and I were re-elected tells me the beneficiaries are happy with the job we've been doing.
"They've given us the go-ahead to continue our growth."
Kaludjak won six of seven Kivalliq communities.
Only Coral Harbour went against him, with Amaujak Netser capturing 104 votes to Sandy's 72 and Kaludjak's 57.
Kaludjak says he thanks Kivalliq residents for their support and those who helped him to his third election win.
"My wife, Dorothy, my kids, family and my granddaughter in Arviat give me much support. Also, to all my supporters, thank you for your faith in me and the job we're doing with the KIA."
On his immediate agenda is holding the KIA's annual general meeting. It was delayed when Sakku Investments could not complete its financial statements.
"We're hoping to hold the AGM before Christmas or in early January."
