IQALUIT
Born in an iglu at a camp near Resolute Bay on Nov. 14, 1949, then working his way through various institutions of government over many years, Andrew Tagak Sr. is now ready for retirement.
Andrew Tagak Sr. dedicated his life to helping fellow Inuit. After a long career in government, he is now entering retirement and was honoured in the legislative assembly earlier this month. - photo courtesy of Ron Wassink |
Tagak has a long history in the North. He was honoured in the legislative assembly earlier this month for his career of public service.
On his lengthy resume are positions with Nunavut Tunggavik Incorporated, the Government of the Northwest Territories, the Iqaluit District Education Authority and the Government of Nunavut's Department of Health.
Why retire now?
"Because I'm 65!" said Tagak.
"I enjoyed working all those years, but I also enjoy myself when I don't have to go to work."
He said he's liked every position he's held and the people he's worked with.
In the legislative assembly, Health Minister Paul Okalik recounted Tagak's life.
"His father wrote in his diary that he had been hunting when Andrew was born," said Okalik.
"He returned home from the hunting trip and learned he had a new son. When he heard the news, he wrote that he was proud and that the other men in the camp envied him because he now had a son who could be a helper and hunter in the family."
Tagak and his family moved to Resolute Bay, travelling by dog team. That's where he eventually met his wife, Jane.
He's watched much change in his life, from the introduction of air travel to e-mail and Internet during his lifetime.
Okalik said Tagak leads by example.
"His work life and family life speaks clearly to the success of incorporating the newest and latest in technology and change while honouring and recognizing our Inuit traditions and culture," said Okalik.
Tagak started retirement on May 26. He says Nunavut is headed in the right direction and wishes the best for the territory.
For young people, he advises them to keep their goals in mind.
"Think about what you want to be at the end," said Tagak. "You work toward that, knowing there are going to be some mistakes. You can always correct them. As long as you're heading in that direction, you can make it."
Members of the legislative assembly wished Tagak all the best in retirement.
"I've enjoyed (work) every day," said Tagak. "The people are nice. They wanted to work with me, I wanted to work with them. It was all good."
He plans to spend more time relaxing now.
