Jennifer McPhee
Northern News Services

Iqaluit (June 10/02) - The Nunavut government is now issuing photo identification cards.

Following the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, several unilingual Inuit were stranded in Ottawa because they lacked enough identification to get back on the plane.

Shortly after, the government decided to issue photo identification cards. But the project was delayed when the laminate supplier ran out of materials.

"We just had to wait," said Tom Bragard, manager of inspections and services with the government.

Right now, cards are only available to people travelling south for medical reasons or those with travel itineraries.

In Cambridge Bay, Rankin Inlet and Iqaluit, people can apply for cards at the motor vehicles office.

In other communities, residents should contact their municipal liaison officer.

By the end of the fiscal year, the government will issue cards to people, in alphabetical order, according to last name.

Those with drivers licences, passports or other photo identification aren't eligible.

The first card is free. Applicants must be at least 12 years old and present two pieces of identification.

However, Bragard said the department will issue cards to children who travel alone on a case by case basis.