Kerry McCluskey
Northern News Services

Iqaluit (Oct 30/02) - A young Rankin Inlet man has landed one of the most important jobs in Nunavut.

Jeffrey Tulugak, 21, was hired recently to head up Nunavut's Area Firearms Office in Iqaluit.

The office is expected to re-open sometime next month. In accordance with the Firearms Act, all Canadians who own firearms are required to carry a licence and register all firearms. Tulugak will assist Nunavummiut with the registration process.

Reached in Winnipeg during a training session, Tulugak said he was excited about the new job. "I think about this as a career," said Tulugak, admitting that he and his friends and family were all proud of his accomplishment.

Currently undergoing computer systems training and the proper procedures for acquiring a license and registering firearms, Tulugak said additional travel to Edmonton and Regina was scheduled for next month. He also said he was pleased to bring to the position Inuktitut language skills -- a crucial service that was absent during the seven-month closure.

Andrew Keim, a master firearms instructor in Nunavut, said he and his colleagues were very pleased the office was finally re-opening and offering service in Inuktitut.

"We hope the re-opening reflects the interest the federal government shows in what Nunavut requires and what Nunavummiut need," said Kiem.

And, while the job means leaving Rankin Inlet to live in the capital, Tulugak said it meant he would be closer to some of his peers.

"I find moving there good. A lot of my friends are there now doing courses and working so I'll get to see them," he said.