Christine Kay
Northern News Services

Iqaluit (Oct 07/02) - Iqaluit Mayor John Matthews says having 10 candidates for two vacant seats on city council is a good sign for the future.

On the ballot Robert Billard Thomas Bragard Nancy Gillis Brad Hall Gideonie Joamie Sytukie Joamie Marje Lalonde Douglas Lem Elisapee Sheutiapik Alden Williams

He said there have been years in the past where entire councils were acclaimed.

"This just underlines the amount of exciting activity going on at city hall and it shows people want to get involved with their community," said Matthews.

The candidates were announced Sept. 30.

They will receive information on the election process and projects being undertaken by the city. From there, it will be up to candidates to start campaigning.

Like voters, candidates must be 18 years of age or older and a Canadian citizen. They must also have been a resident of Iqaluit for at least 12 months before the voting date. Criminal records and tax payments are also looked at.

Advanced polls will be held on Oct. 25 and the byelection itself on Nov. 4.

A voters' list has been posted in public areas across Iqaluit. The city will add names and make corrections to it until Oct. 24. Matthews said to the best of his knowledge this is the most candidates to ever run for council.

"Democracy is alive and well in Iqaluit," he said.

Results from the byelection will be tallied when the polls close on Nov. 4.