Qikiqtani Inuit Association (QIA) President P.J. Akeeagok on Tuesday addressed the controversy over the regulatory hearings for Baffinland’s proposal for expansion at its Mary River iron mine.
“At QIA’s January board meeting and during the NIRB (Nunavut Impact Review Board) hearings in Pond Inlet, I heard concerns from Qikiqtani Inuit and Mittimatalingmiut that Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (traditional knowledge) was not being honoured throughout this process,” Akeeagok stated in a news release. “I heard from Elders that we should speak about what we see and experience. I have heard from hunters that the project needs to slow down. I have heard impacted communities speak strongly about their concerns regarding phase two.
“It is abundantly clear to me that the phase two proposal before the Nunavut Impact Review Board has not been adequately developed. QIA believes success can be achieved when parties have time to work together to advance a common vision,” said Akeeagok.
The news release added that QIA continues to support the extension of NIRB’s community round table and anticipates further open engagement with impacted communities, especially oral questions, and comments vital to Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit.
Lol, trying to save your hide
…while telling protesters to buzz off and let baffinland work. We know who lines your pockets
Akeeagok should be ashamed of this comment. He is talking out of both sides of his mouth. On one side he and QIA are accepting millions of dollars which flows into the legacy fund and pretend they are partners with Baffinland, and on the other side trying to protect QIA and the poor image they have with the communities he suggest this is poorly planned. Funny that QIA a month ago was suggesting that all of their technical issues were resolved due to the negotiation of the multi-million dollar Inuit Certainty Agreement. You should be ashamed. I call for the immediate dissolution of the QIA Board of Directors with immediate elections to replace all of these two faced politicians. You can’t have it both ways. Get a back bone and say you support the mine, instead of trying to tuck your tail in when the community raises their voice. Be a leader and teach and show the communities why this is good for Nunavut, good for the communities and good for INuit. I am ashamed of you today. Resign immediately.
After facts only, do not vote for lavish hotel stay with meals while the rest of Inuit suffer, and going Ottawa for NTI meeting. do not vote for them.