Nunavut returns to three separate time zones
Kerry McCluskey
Northern News Services
Iqaluit (Mar 05/01) - The times they are a changin', again.
Justice Minister Paul Okalik announced in the legislature last week that Nunavut is going back to three separate time zones.
After 18 months of controversy surrounding the switch to a unified time zone, Okalik said that on April 1, 2001, clocks will be adjusted according to region.
The Kitikmeot will operate on Mountain Standard Time; Kivalliq on Central Standard Time; and the Baffin region will follow Eastern Standard Time.
Okalik said he didn't consider the last 18 months to be a failure.
"I think we showed everyone we'll try anything to improve services for our residents and that we listen to our residents," said Okalik.
The government made the change after the majority of communities overwhelmingly supported three separate time zones.
"I've had enough of this issue," said Okalik.
Baker Lake MLA Glenn McLean said it meant legislators could concentrate on more serious issues.
"Great. It's over," he said.
Iqaluit Centre MLA Hunter Tootoo said they'd wasted too much time on the matter already.
"There are more important issues to focus our time on than 60 minutes," said Tootoo.
"It had to come," said Kugluktuk MLA Donald Havioyak. "He's got the message. He's responding to the needs of Nunavummiut. My community is pleased."
