'You got this cuz:' Northerners express support, concern for Hunter Tootoo

Former federal cabinet minister Hunter Tootoo's constituents are expressing concern and support for him since his announcement that he'll be leaving cabinet and seeking treatment for addictions issues.

"I support him,"said Iqaluit resident Joanie Tagakin Inuktitut. "It's regrettable but that's life."

"I will support him and continue despite his shortcomings," said Emily Illnik, another Iqaluit resident, in Inuktitut. "I am sure he can be an example to others who find themselves in that situation."

• Hunter Tootoo resigned of his own will after 'very difficult situation,' PM says

"I don't know him personally, butI've known him long enough to think that maybe he tried his best,"saidAmber Tagalik. "His addictions problem... to actually admit it is showing strength."

Tootoo'smother, SallyLuttmer, had a similar sentiment when shespoke to CBC from Calgary.

"I am more proud of him for his courage in taking this step than I was even when he was named a minister."

In the legislature Wednesday,Premier Peter Taptunaextended his support toTootoo, and said he has showncourageand works hard.

Nunavut cabinet minister George Hickes, a cousin of Tootoo's, said he had spoken with him briefly to offer support and assistance, and that headmired his courage.

"I think he learned a lot from my cousin Jordin[Tootoo]when he went through a similar situation a number of years ago. I commend them both for their bravery."

Jordin Tootoochimed in as well.

Others went online to offer their own messages.

Pujjuut Kusugak, a former mayor of Rankin Inlet, also weighed in.

As did Kenny Bell, a former city councillor in Iqaluit.

So did Nunavut-born singer Susan Aglukark.

Not all comments were positive however.

A constituent from Arctic Bay wrote that he'd wasted his vote.

In response, others chimed in, again acknowledging his courage in seeking help.

'We only have one voice'

LeonaAglukkaq, who precededTootooas Nunavut MP, and wasCanada's firstInukseniorcabinetminister with the Harper government, expressed concern about the impact on constituents.

"We only have one voice, so of course this is going to impact the representation thatNunavutwill receive," she said.

"It's very important to have representation in Nunavut."