Coral Harbour (May 19/04) - Residents have spoken up and have chosen mineral exploration over a bird sanctuary on Coats Island.

The project was initiated by Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. and the federal government, but the final say went to the residents of Coral Harbour.

Johnny Ningeongan, mayor of Coral Harbour, said the community has rejected a proposed bird sanctuary on Coats Island.

A community meeting was held in April with the community opposing the creation of a protected bird sanctuary.

Mayor Johnny Ningeongan said the community didn't turn down the protected area because they were against the environment. He said they rejected it because they have other priorities like jobs and building the community's economy.

In the agreement for the proposed protected area, the community would have received some financial assistance. Under the Inuit Impact Benefits Agreement the community would receive $300,000 to establish a co-management agreement with the federal government.

Instead of the sanctuary, Ningeongan said the community chose to lift the moratorium on gas exploration in the area. He said some companies have expressed interest to explore Coats Island. "Probably five years ago the community would have been opposed to any exploration, but priorities change." he said. "The community needs more jobs."

Ningeongan said it's important that money starts coming into the community.

He said he is hopeful the explorations are the start of the community's economic development.

Ningeongan pointed out that the community isn't against protecting the environment. He said there are two bird sanctuaries on South Hampton Island.

The two current sanctuaries are the East Bay Bird Sanctuary and the Harry Gibbons Bird Sanctuary. "They will always be there to protect the wildlife," he said.