Iqaluit (Feb 19/03) - Political tremors are still being felt following Premier Paul Okalik's decision to strip Culture Language Elders and Youth Minister Jack Anawak of his portfolio.

Responsibilities for CLEY were given to Sustainable Development Minister Olayuk Akesuk.

The move came after Anawak spoke out publicly against cabinet's decision to headquarter the Qulliq Energy Corp. in Baker Lake.

The decision directly affects employees of the Petroleum Products Division (PPD) in Rankin Inlet.

Okalik said there were a number of factors he considered before making the decision, announced Feb. 11.

"Confidentiality of cabinet discussions was a factor, as well as cabinet solidarity, which ensures decisions we make are implemented," said Okalik.

"The goals of our government in decentralizing positions, wherever they may be in Nunavut, was an issue that prompted the minister's disclosures."

Anawak, who previously held both Justice and Community Government and Transportation portfolios, said Nunavut needs a more transparent and open government.

He said the dream of what Nunavut was meant to be is not materializing.

"Let's make sure the people get the government (that) those who started the land claims process envisioned for Nunavut," said Anawak.

"The only reason to form Nunavut was to mould a creative and innovative government, combining the best of what contemporary government and Inuit have to give.

"But it's become a 95 per cent British parliamentary system when it should be the other way around.

"For lack of a better word, the premier is a bully who other ministers seem intimidated by."

Fight not over yet

Anawak was not the only minister to speak out against the government's plans for PPD.

CG&T Minister Manitok Thompson also voiced her disapproval, but did so while the move was only an agreement in principle.

While Thompson avoided Anawak's fate, Okalik still isn't certain if she's back on the same page as the GN concerning the PPD situation.

"Minister Thompson has espoused her views privately to me and she continues to press issues, but she has not voiced those views in public since we made a cabinet decision.

"I advised Minister Thompson I was making a move on Mr. Anawak when it became apparent it would be difficult to continue."

Okalik said he consulted members of the assembly before stripping Anawak's cabinet responsibilities.

He said he advised the members he was going to use his authority to remove Anawak's portfolio in the best interests of Nunavut.

"Once I exercised my authority, I advised Mr. Anawak that it was his decision if he wanted to carry on as a minister without portfolio.

"However, I do expect some activity will take place regarding this matter during the upcoming session."

Anawak says the premier has no choice but to try and get a non-confidence vote against him next month.

"If no motion comes forward, the premier looks bad, so I expect him to try.

"Whether he succeeds or not, we'll have to wait and see."

As minister without portfolio, Anawak retains his cabinet pay.