Igloolik opens new hamlet office

Celebrations in Igloolik, Nunavut,Monday, recognized the grand opening of the new hamlet building and the rescue last Tuesday of three hunters who were stranded on the land.

Government officials such as Nunavut MP LeonaAglukkaq and Premier PeterTaptunaflew intoIgloolikfor the day.

Hamlet staff have already been using the new office since fall.

Celestino Uyarak, the hamlet's assistant SAO, says the new hamlet office brings everyone under one roof.

"In the past, we had scattered offices, so this office is a lot better," he said. "it's cleaner;it's brighter. It's a lot better than the one we just left."

The hamlet presented a plaque to former Amittuq MLA Louis Tapardjuk to thank him for his years of service.

There were also thanks forthe volunteers who helped out with last week's three-day search for elder Eugene Ipkanarkand two young men.People from Hall Beach who helped out with the search were snowmobiling to Igloolik for the event.

A community feast capped off the festivities.