Iqaluit (May 12/03) - It's no secret -- Canada is short on skilled tradespeople.

Last week, however, the territory made an effort to recognize some of the many individuals that are working hard to fill the skills gap in the Nunavut.

May 5-9 was apprenticeship week in Nunavut and activities were held across the territory.

Last Thursday, awards of excellence were handed out to five local apprentices -- Michael Currie, Carson Soucie, Lee Klazinga, John Brand and Josephi Aniqmuiq -- who achieved 80 per cent or higher on their Apprenticeship Trade and Occupation Certification.

Twelve others elsewhere in the territory were also honoured.

"When you achieve, we achieve as a government and as Nunavut," said Joyce Suluk, director of adult learning and post-secondary services. She addressed a small crowd of employers, apprentices and government workers who attended an awards ceremony in the Sivummut Building.

There are currently 120 apprentices working throughout the territory this year.

"There's a shortage right across the country," said Pam Hine, deputy minister of education.

Hine said the territory's demand for skilled labour is in high demand because of the territory's burgeoning infrastructure needs.

"When kids decide what they want to do when they grow up they shouldn't exclude trades," she said.