Herb Mathisen
Northern News Services
Published Monday, June 23, 2008

INUVIK - The closure of the Arctic Tern Young Offender Facility in Inuvik was one of the most debated reductions from this year's budget, and even though it will now stay open, its long-term fate remains in question.

Premier Floyd Roland said the government would defer the closure while spelling out his concessions, June 17. On May 29 MLAs voted unanimously to recommend the reinstatement of $613,000 to fund the facility.

The facility will now operate under a reduced staffing model, with 14.5 full-time positions reinstated.

"It worked out well at the end and the fact that (cabinet) listened to us is a huge step," said Robert McLeod, MLA for Inuvik Twin Lakes.

McLeod vowed to fight "tooth and nail" against the Arctic Tern closure, which would have affected 20 full-time employees.

He argued against shutting down a building which cost $6 million to build in 2002, before an engineer's report could determine the severity of structural damage to the building.

He also questioned the message the government was sending to employees who were told to go out and get trained to work at the facility, but were later given pink slips.

As well, McLeod mentioned potential changes to the Youth Criminal Justice Act which could mean the detention of more young offenders.

Jackson Lafferty, minister of justice, maintained the building had damage to its foundation and was being severely under-used.

He argued that closure is justified by having a $2.5 million operations budget for a facility with 20 staff, plus seven relief staff, to look after so few youth.

He said it will remain open on a one-year trial basis.

McLeod said the letters sent by the facility's workers to MLAs that made a difference.

Inuvik Mayor Derek Lindsay said he was happy the centre was staying open, adding the jobs provided will be good for the community.

"I'm glad they won't close it, because it doesn't look like there will be many jobs here this winter," Lindsay said.