Inuvik (Feb 24/06) - Inuvialuit beneficiary Richard Gordon says the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation has to do more to inform its people about what's in store if the gas project goes ahead.

He made the comment after saying information he received on the access and benefits agreement hammered out between the IRC and pipeline proponents was vague.

"That's the whole thing about saying they are having community consultations," said Gordon after the Joint Review Panel hearing in Inuvik ended Thursday afternoon.

"If you mention pipeline, some will say 'I don't care,' and that kind of attitude is out there. For leadership to change that, they have to get out there and let the people know what's going on."

Gordon says he'd like to see any access and benefits agreement put to a general vote for Inuvialuit beneficiaries.

"I believe, as a beneficiary, you should have a yes or no vote," said Gordon of the IRC's position that the decision rests with its negotiating team.

When the Drum contacted IRC Chair Nellie Cournoyea, she declined to comment on the matter.

"It's internal and I'm not prepared to talk about it," said Cournoyea.