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IKAAHUK/SACHS HARBOUR - Although they'd been on the beat for more than a month, RCMP in Sachs Harbour were officially welcomed back in style last month.

Dressed in their classic red serge uniforms, the RCMP officially re-opened the Sachs Harbour detachment with some help from the community and more than a few politicians.

"It was a little cool but a beautiful day," said Cpl. Eric McKenzie.

"We started a little later than expected due to some flight arrangements but that's neither here nor there."

He said the ceremony was opened by Priscilla Haogak and a group of kids singing the national anthem in Inuvialuktun.

Several Northern politicians were on hand for the historic day including Premier Floyd Roland, Inuvialuit Regional Corp. Chair Nellie Cournoyea, Nunakput MLA Jackie Jacobson, and Western Arctic MP Dennis Bevington.

Former Sachs mayor and one-time special constable with the RCMP Andy Carpenter Sr. gave the opening speech.

The RCMP closed down the Sachs Harbour detachment in 1992 due to a lack of funding. The reestablishment of the detachment was brought about by co-operation of all levels of government, including Mayor Robert Eldridge, hamlet council, the federal government, RCMP and the NWT Department of Justice.

Deputy Mayor Donna Keogak said having the RCMP back full time has been positive for the community.

"For me, it makes me feel a lot safer. We never had much crime to begin with but they're there when we need them," said Keogak. "Everybody knows now that if anything happens they're available."

During the ceremony, Keogak presented Chief Supt. Tom Middleton with a plaque commemorating the day.

"It was very, very nice and we followed it up with a big barbecue feast down on the beach, which was put on by the hamlet," said McKenzie.

McKenzie said the feast included muskox burgers, turkey, ham, salads, fruit and vegetables. Now that the official opening is over, the RCMP will be renovating the facility further.