Rankin Inlet (Dec 06/06) - The first steps toward the dawn of a new era were taken by an organization in Rankin Inlet this past week.

The Kangiqliniq Hunters and Trappers Organization (HTO) unveiled its new logo as a symbol of what it hopes will be a fresh beginning for the organization during its annual general meeting (AGM).

HTO manager Norman Ford said the main issue covered during the AGM was to take care of money owing the federal government.

He said the HTO paid the income tax it owed for the years 2003, '04 and '05.

"The money we owed for those years was a major burden for us," said Ford.

"We still owe for 2005 and 2006, and we're still working on some equipment that was not properly accounted for through this office, but we're getting there.

"We're working our way through a hard time and trying to leave the past behind us."

Three HTO board positions will be up for grabs during this month's elections, each for a two-year term.

The membership also voted to extend the chair's term to three years from its previous one.

The first election for the new term will not be held until December 2007.

Once in place, the longer chairperson's term should provide better continuity for the organization.

The organization also recognized eight elders for their contributions to the HTO during its AGM.

Among those honoured was Annie Tatty, who has been on the local board for the past 24 years.

Ford said the Kangiqliniq HTO will be more transparent and the poor record-keeping days of the past are gone forever.

"Our new name and logo symbolize a new era of accountability and success for the Kangiqliniq HTO.

"We want to put the past behind us and move forward in a positive direction."