Coral Harbour (Jan 17/07) - A familiar face to Nunavut is the new RCMP detachment commander in Coral Harbour.

Cpl. Chris Coles had spent time in Iqaluit, Pangnirtung, Cape Dorset, Qikiqtarjuaq and Kimmirut before becoming an instructor at the RCMP Training Academy (Depot) in Regina.

Const. Jamie Jeffery is seen here with Cpl. Chris Coles, left, in Coral Harbour this past week. Coles is the new detachment commander in Coral Harbour. - photo courtesy of Chris Coles

After two years in the south, Coles decided a return to Nunavut was in order and now mans the Coral detachment with Const. Jamie Jeffery, who's been in the community for the past 18 months.

Coles said although he enjoyed his time at Depot, he's happy to be back in the North.

"I enjoyed instructing because it's nice to take a group of civilians and, six-months later, see them graduate as Mounties," said Coles.

"But I always missed the North, both the operational side of things and the calmer way of life.

"In the end, I realized it was time to come back."

Coles arrived in Coral on Boxing Day and began to feel at home almost immediately.

The new corporal was treated to a pleasant surprise during his first week in the community when he was told of a special evening the elders host for people who move to Coral and call it home.

He said participating in that was a nice welcome to the community for him.

"The nurses, hamlet SAO and employees of the Northern store were all there.

"I won't get into all the details on banana pudding, but it was a lot of fun."

Four years in the North had acclimatized Coles to Arctic living and he struggled with the heat in Regina, practically living in his basement during the summer.

He said he's looking forward to his time in Coral, which is regarded as one of Nunavut's quieter communities.

"Hopefully, that will allow me time to get to know the town and be involved with aspects of community life other than policing.

"I'm big on restorative justice, so it's going to be nice to work with Coral's justice committee to divert cases suitable for diversion."

Coles was disappointed that no Inuit cadets came through Depot during his time there.

He checked often to see if any were on their way so he could help them adjust to their new surroundings.

"It can be hard for Inuit coming to Regina for six months.

"They can get homesick away from their friends and family, and having someone there who appreciates what they're going through can be a big help.

"But, that didn't happen, so I'll do my best to recruit people while I'm in Coral for the next three years."