The ceremony in the chamber of the Nunavut legislature promises to include all the red serge pomp and majesty such an event commands.

The official change in command at the top of "V" Division is also part of the proceedings, to be attended by Premier Paul Okalik, Commissioner of the RCMP Giuliano Zaccardelli and senior RCMP officers from three provinces and the Northwest Territories.

The eight Inuit will bring to 17 the number of Inuit police members.

Three more Inuit recruits are entering the scholastic phase of their training and will join the force in April.

The eight are: Russell Akeeagok (Ausuittuq/Grise Fiord), Kipaniq Eegeesiak (Iqaluit), George Henrie (Kangiqliniq/Rankin Inlet), Annie Keenainak (Panniqtuuq), Nathan MacKay (Kugluktuk), Michael Salomonie (Kinngait/Cape Dorset), Jamie Savikataaq (Arviat), and Sylvia Sharp (Rankin Inlet).

"This is a significant event that the RCMP were able to recruit so many Inuit into its membership," explained Staff Sgt. Mike Jeffrey, of "V" Division.

The eight have finished seven months training at "the Depot" -- the RCMP college in Regina, Saskatchewan.

The three undertaking their scholastic training are: David Lawson (Panniqtuuq), James Mearns (Panniqtuuq) and Teema Palluk (Clyde River).

Scholastic training takes place in their home communities, taught by other constables or local teachers.

"Taking into consideration that there are 100 RCMP in Nunavut, these 11 will definitely have an impact," Jeffrey said.

"In terms of the communities involved, having representatives from the people we police on a daily basis is very important to us."

Once they get their badges, the recruits will be stationed in various communities across Nunavut, but not their hometowns. At least, not at first.

"It's foreseeable that they may return to their hometown one day to police, but they are posted to where we need the resources at this time," Jeffrey said.

Once stationed, the novice Mounties will be partnered for six months of field training with a veteran who will offer guidance and support.

The recruits won't be the only centre of attention.

At the ceremony, Chief Supt. Vern White will officially sign over command of "V" Division to John Henderson.

The ceremony agenda includes a 16-member colour parade and addresses from dignitaries.