Rankin Inlet
The Rankin Inlet Volunteer Fire Department held one of its biggest annual events this past weekend, June 16 and 17, in Rankin.
The Solfest fundraiser for the department featured an indoor gala dinner featuring the music of the Jerry Cans on June 16, as well as a free outdoor community concert on June 17 featuring the music of the Jerry Cans, Terrie Kusugak and the Midnight News.
Fuel spill in Baker
Baker Lake
A fuel spill was reported at the Martha Taliruq Centre in Baker Lake on June 12.
The government of Nunavut stated that the departments of Community and Government Services, Environment, and Health worked closely with a consultant to ensure minimal impact on the community and environment immediately following the spill.
As of press time, the government had not released how much fuel was actually spilled in Baker.
New visitor's centre opens
Rankin Inlet
The new Kivalliq Regional Visitor's Centre was scheduled to officially open in Rankin Inlet on June 16 at 1:30 p.m.
A number of dignitaries were expected to be hand for the event, as well as Rankin Mayor Robert Janes.
New cabinet shake-up
Nunavut
New Nunavut Premier Joe Savikataaq announced changes to his Executive Council portfolios on June 15, with David Akeeagok becoming the new deputy premier and minister of Economic Development and Transportation, while George Hickes was named the new minister of Finance and Jeannie Ehaloak the new minister of Environment, in addition to her current portfolios.
Savikataaq also announced in a press release that Paul Okalik’s appointment as chief negotiator for devolution is no longer in effect.
A replacement will be appointed at a later date.
Youth council named
Rankin Inlet
Tagalik Eccles of Rankin Inlet was one of 10 youth from across the country appointed to the Prime Minister's Youth Council this past week.
In announcing the youth, the Prime Minister's Office stated in a press release that Eccles has worked with Kivalliq Counseling and Support Services, and that she takes pride in her community, works to inspire civic engagement, and recently led a campaign to clean up public spaces.
Eccles is in the Nunavut Law program, and her vision for Canada is one of a country without food scarcity, and where the gap has closed between those living in the North and those living further south.
Boil water advisory
Rankin Inlet
The community of Rankin Inlet was put on a precautionary boil water advisory by the Department of Health on June 7.
The advisory is a precautionary measure due to high turbidity (cloudy water) levels in Rankin, especially in Area 6.
During a boil water advisory, all water for consumption must be brought to a rolling boil for a minimum of one full minute.
The department says it's essential that all water be boiled for the uses of drinking, preparing infant formulas, preparing juices and ice cubes, washing fruits and vegetables, cooking and the brushing of teeth.