Broughton Island (Apr 26/04) - Job cuts are possible as a government-appointed administrator will work to pull the hamlet out of its $1 million debt.

Bill Buckle, a municipal supervisor with the GN, was appointed last week to be Qikiqtarjuaq's senior administrative officer for the next 12 months. He will also serve as finance controller.

"They have not been able to hang on to an SAO or have a finance controller," explained MLA Peter Kilabuk. "They were not able to collect on their bills, and due to shortfalls in expected revenue, a number of things led to the situation we are now facing."

Kilabuk said at this time the eight-member hamlet council will remain in office, but job cuts are not being ruled out.

"I cannot really say anything on this," said Mayor Lootie Toomasie. He described his hamlet's struggles as similar to those in Kugluktuk, which is in debt over $1 million.