Skip to content

South Baffin – Nunavut Election 2017 candidate profiles

Incumbent David Joanasie takes on sole challenger Michael Salomonie in the South Baffin riding. Salomonie did not send a candidate profile. 

David Joanasie

Reason for running:

Families: Our government needs to refocus how it supports and serves families, especially our younger population and our most precious resource, our children. The GN must put greater efforts and make way for families to lead an independent and healthy lifestyle.

Education/training: Our government needs to rethink the education system and transform it to fit the needs of Nunavummiut. The square peg does not fit in the round hole. This shows in the graduation rates and the school attendance numbers. Plus, training opportunities must be tailored, targeted and aimed towards Inuit willing and able to work and contribute to the territory.

Housing: Our government needs to re-evaluate the cost of building and maintaining both staff and public houses in Nunavut. The GN must explore options that are proven and make a meaningful impact in addressing the housing crisis. This includes looking at different housing concepts and models. Investing in housing solutions that provide families a place to call their own will pay off on all fronts down the road.

I grew up in Cape Dorset, completed two years of post-secondary education at Nunavut Sivuniksavut, worked at different Inuit organizations and Government of Nunavut departments, volunteered through Northern Youth Abroad, and participated in Arctic Winter Games on three different occasions.