photo courtesy Michel/Albert/Legislative Assembly
Joe Enook, Speaker of Nunavut's 5th Legislative Assembly, has died.
"It is my sad duty to announce the passing of Speaker Joe Enook, who left us yesterday following a short illness," stated deputy speaker Simeon Mikkungwak in news release March 30.
"My colleagues and I take comfort in knowing that his beloved wife, Mary, was with him at the end. Speaker Enook served his constituents with passion, and represented our institution with dignity. Our thoughts are with Joe’s family and the entire community of Pond Inlet."
Enook was first elected by Tununiq voters in a by-election in September, 2011 and re-elected in 2013 and 2017. He served as deputy speaker and chairperson of the Committee of the Whole during the 4th Legislative Assembly.
"On behalf of the Government of Nunavut, I extend our sincere condolences to Joe’s family and constituents. I had the honour of serving with Joe for a number of years and can attest to his commitment and dedication to the well-being of our territory," stated Premier Joe Savikataaq.
Before entering politics, Enook was vice-president of Nunavut operations for the Nunasi Corporation from 2000 to 2011. He also worked as the executive assistant to the president of Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. from 1994 to 2000.
Enook is also a former chairperson of the Baffin Divisional Board of Education and a member of the Pond Inlet Education Council.
His personal interests include reading, sports and camping, according to his legislative assembly biography.
Flags are flying at half-mast at the Legislative Assembly to honour Enook.
The Nunavut Legislative Assembly will host a book of condolences