Mick Appaqaq
Community: Sanikiluaq
Age: 29
Family status: Engaged
Career: Environmental Technician for Arctic Eider Society
Volunteer or board experience:
Hamlet Council, under of which I was the chair for the Planning and Lands Committee, HTO Board and part of the Joint Planning Committee for the proposed territorial park, Kinngaaluk. I was a part of CLARC (Community Land and Resource Committee), which oversees any proposed activities on Inuit-owned lands.
Why are you running for MLA?
I always knew I was going to run for MLA to become a voice for the people, to represent those marginalized and to build a good relationship with Inuit. Growing up and to date, I am and have been aware of some struggles Inuit face on a daily basis. These are the ones I want to forge a good relationship with, to improve their livelihood, to pave a brighter future for the next generation.
How much influence should NTI have in territorial governance?
After my time at Nunavut Sivuniksavut, and learning much of the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement remains largely unimplemented, I believe the Government of Nunavut and Nunavut Tunngavik could work together to start implementing the NLCA. With much of Nunavut represented by MLAs from their constituencies, and with the advocacy done by NTI, I believe much could be accomplished.
How urgent is combating climate change in Nunavut?
The global urgency of climate change is at its critical point, and so it should be just as urgent for Nunavut. It’s becoming apparent that we need to make long term investments in green energy, I am glad to see some communities like Sanikiluaq taking steps to becoming less dependent on fossil fuels. Greenhouse gas emissions are contributing to this situation, I believe with proper action, Nunavut will be able to mitigate climate change.
How do you envision economic development in your riding?
I have always encouraged economic development especially community and Inuit-driven development. There is a lot of potential for different ways for our economy to grow. There are natural and sustainable resources to tap into such as eider down and benthic (bottom of the ocean) invertebrates. With the right help, Inuit and/or Inuit owned businesses would be able to grow.
Are you for or against mandatory vaccinations?
Personally, I am for mandatory inoculations. The more people are vaccinated, the more people we would be able to keep safe. With another surge of cases of COVID-19 in Canada, it is imperative to vaccinate as many as possible.