Coral Harbour (Sep 10/03) - Patterk Netser of Coral Harbour knew the Nanulik byelection was going to be a tight race.

Patterk Netser won the Nanulik byelection by seven votes over George Tanuyak. - Darrell Greer/NNSL photo

So, he wasn't surprised when his margin of victory over runner-up George Tanuyak of Chesterfield Inlet was a scant seven votes.

The byelection became necessary when former Nanulik MLA James Arvaluk was forced to resign after being convicted of assault.

Netser finished with 165 votes, while Tanuyak captured 158 and Francis Mazhero of Chester had 80.

"There were some anxious moments on election night," said Netser with a relieved chuckle.

"We heard we had won, but we had to wait about another two hours before it was made official."

Netser said the Nanulik riding of Coral Harbour and Chesterfield Inlet has been without a solid voice in the legislative assembly for too long.

"I was lectured on the campaign trail in Chester because the people felt totally left out, as far as being represented at the legislative assembly, and the people in Coral felt exactly the same.

"It's no secret many people signed petitions to get him (Arvaluk) removed from the legislative assembly."

Netser said both communities will get equal representation during his time as MLA.

"One of the top priorities in Chester is proper docking facilities for their boats.

"In Coral, it's the continuation of the road construction to the Duke of York Bay, which ties into local tourism big time."

Netser, who plans to run again in the 2004 territorial election, said a number of people were key players in his election win.

"I have to thank God, my campaign manager, Sarah Kadjuk, and the efforts of Leonie Pameolik, Leonie McKitrick, Peter and Margaret Nakoolak and my wife, Mona.

"I'd also like to thank Cathy Towtongie for her advice while I was campaigning."

Netser said his main focus in the legislative assembly next month will be on the Homeowners Repair program, which he said doesn't meet the needs of the people.

He said many homes in his riding are getting old and it's hard for people to free up money to repair them.

"Almost all our income is spent on putting food on the table.

"There is nothing left for renovations, so the government has to step up and help out."