New faces set to take over at Nunavuts legislature after vote

Looks like there will be many new faces in Nunavut’s legislative assembly following Monday’s vote. One noticeable change came in the Cambridge Bay riding where former deputy premier Pamela Gross lost her seat to Fred Pederson. In Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu riding- the seat of outgoing premier P.J. Akeeagok was won by David Akeeagok. He held the Quttiktuq seat in the last caucus but switched ridings once P.J. Akeeagok announced he would not be seeking reelection. According to Elections Nunavut, just over 15,000 – or roughly 37 per cent, of Nunavummiut voted. Click here to see who was elected: Elections Nunavut  Those heading to the polls Monday night had a number of issues they want addressed by the new government. The most concern was around affordability in the territory. “The cost of living in Nunavut has skyrocketed, and it wasn’t great to begin with.” said Suzanne Etheridge on her way to the polls. “That’s probably the biggest thing. And I think it sort of covers everything, right? Travel, food, medicine, everything.” Another voter agreed with Etherridge but added that he wants to see homelessness and mental health addressed. Voter Maya Jelali said that she wants to see a focus on education. “I know there hasn’t been a lot of discussion about education. I work for CNDA, the Coalition of Navalk District Education Authorities,” she said. “So, you know, funding when it comes to education, priorities when it comes to recruiting more teachers, you know, providing housing.” Some voters were concerned with people coming to the territory looking for work. “That’s my main concern,” said one voter who did not wish to be identified. “Because, I applied for jobs and I don’t get hired.” Read More:  Food-security researcher says Nunavut gripped by ‘worst hunger crisis’ she’s seen  At least three ridings have will see a judiciary recount as their races were too close to call. After all the new and returning members of the Legislative Assembly are confirmed, the next premier, cabinet and house speaker will be elected at the first special sitting of the new legislative session which is scheduled for Nov. 20. Continue Reading