Kirsten Murphy
Northern News Services

Kimmirut (Aug 06/01) - A popular territorial park re-opened Wednesday, after a polar bear attacked four sleeping canoeists at Soper Falls July 27.

Alain Parenteau, 31, and Patricia Doyon, 25, suffered multiple flesh wounds during the early-morning assault. They returned to Quebec early last week.

Katannilik Park was closed for five days while wildlife officials and Mayukalik Hunters and Trappers Association conducted air and ground searches for the bear.

It is the first recorded polar bear attack in a territorial park, said David Monteith, director of parks and tourism for the Department of Sustainable Development.

"This tells us bears are very unpredictable," Monteith said.

"We've learned to make sure we get as much information to the travelling public on how to deal with bears. And to inform visitors they have a responsibility to acquire that information and make their own choices about going into an area or not."

During the attack, one camper stabbed the young bear with a pocket knife. As of Friday, the injured bear remained at large.

A five-page advisory about polar bear safety was issued following the attack. The advisory recommends people travel with a licensed outfitter or travel in groups of four people while in the park. Bear deterrents such as pepper spray and noisemakers are strongly recommended.

Such warnings are not new. A glossy "Safety in polar bear country" pamphlet from Parks Canada has been in visitor centres and parks offices for at least a year. The brochure refers to the risks of travelling in wilderness areas.

"The community (of Kimmirut) has made it clear we don't want to scare people from travelling in Katannilik. Sure, there is always an element of risk but the key is to make sure the public is informed," Monteith said.

Sustainable Development Minister Olayuk Akesuk has asked for an independent review of bear safety in territorial parks and conservation areas as a result of the attack.

The review is expected to take three months.

The Soper Falls campground remained closed late last week while Kimmirut wildlife and parks staff continue monitoring the area for the bear.

If found, the animal will be euthanized.