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INUVIK
The Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk highway project is entering its final stages of regulatory approval, but some residents are frustrated at the delays.

RCMP observe a demonstration involving a convey of trucks outside the Midnight Sun Complex on Sept. 19. The demonstration was supporting the project and protesting the regulatory delays involved in the proposed Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk Highway project. - Danielle Sachs/NNSL photo

Two full days of public hearings were held in Inuvik at the Midnight Sun Complex on Sept. 18 and 19 before continuing in Tuktoyaktuk for two more hearings Sept. 24 and 25 at Kitty Hall. Using the community hall at the Midnight Sun Complex, on the first day of the hearings the room was full.

The hearings focus on the environmental impact of constructing a 140 km, all-weather road linking Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk – a project which will cost $250-$300 million. Currently, the two communities are only connected by flights or the winter ice road.

The technical review phase was completed and the public consultations with the Inuvialuit Settlement Region Joint Secretariat's Environmental Impact Review Board are some of the final steps to securing funding for construction of the road.

The hearing involve all branches of government. Representatives were present from Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Environment Canada, the Tuktoyaktuk-Inuvik working group for the Fisheries Joint Management Committee, Infrastructure Canada, Parks Canada, Transport Canada and the Wildlife Management Advisory Council.

"The environmental protection work for a project of this size is key," said Inuvik Mayor Denny Rodgers. "Obviously we have to do it right."

The assessment was presented by Kiggiak EBA Consulting Ltd. and was to be followed by questions from parties, the panel and the public.

Rodgers said every step forward is a positive step for the region.

"It's very significant for this region," he said. "It's very quiet right now and a project such as this will put food on people's tables."

Construction time for the project is currently estimated at about five years. The highway would lower the cost of living and reduce costs to industry and exploration.

Locally, Rodgers said tourism would increase because people could visit Tuktoyaktuk after driving the Dempster Highway.

By the second day of hearings, on Sept. 19, residents were ready to show their frustrations over delays and the seemingly endless regulatory approvals needed.

A convoy of trucks and construction vehicles drove along Mackenzie Road snaking their way to the Midnight Sun Complex at around 11:30 a.m. Sept. 19 with horns blaring. They parked outside the complex for half an hour, displaying a sign demanding the project not be stalled.

Kurt Wainman is the president and owner of Northwind Industries Ltd., which organized the demonstration.

"Everyone says this is a protest but it's in support of the highway," he said. "We're supporting the road but we're concerned about people dragging their heels."

Rodgers observed the protest from the front entrance of the complex.

"I think it's great," he said. "They're making sure they're heard."

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