Iqaluit (July 12/04) - Robert Ayalik's complaint against the territorial government was dismissed by the Fair Practices Office.

On June 25, Sarah Kay, fair practice officer, ruled that Ayalik's termination by the Nunavut government wasn't based on race. In his complaint, he alleged that the government discriminated against him after it terminated his assignment with Health and Social Services in Kugluktuk.

He said the agreement was terminated when he raised questions about the lack of Inuit participation in a health care meeting. From the fair practice hearing, held Jan. 27-30, Kay said the compliant wasn't justified.

In her ruling, Kay said she didn't find any proof of discrimination. She said the government could have handled the situation better, however.

"I do not say that this situation was well managed," she said. The report was critical of two senior department officials.

"Regrettably, neither Dr. (Keith) Best nor Mr. (Andrew) Johnston showed much leadership in the situation."