Iqaluit MLA wants workplace bullying addressed as legislative assembly resumes

As Nunavut's legislative assembly begins its spring sitting Monday, one Iqaluit MLA hopes concerns about workplace harassment and bullying within the Government of Nunavut will be front and centre.

Pat Angnakak, the MLA for Iqaluit-Niaqunnguu, says the problem is so bad it's making some people sick.

"Every day is a terrible day," she said. "They are seeing a psychologist that they never had to before, they are throwing up before they go to work. These are real cases."

Angnakakhopes a review of human resources practices later this week in the legislature will shed light on the disconnect between the government and its employees.

Last OctoberAngnakak calledfor a review on how workplace complaints are handled within the government.In March, the governmentdeveloped a new anti-harrassment seminar for managers thataddressedworkplace bullying.

Short session

It will be ashort sitting of the legislature, ending June 8.

"Everyone's going tofishing derbies and seal hunting," said Paul Quassa, the MLA for Aggu and the government house leader.

"I think spring time is normally a time when you feel like you want to be outside instead of inside sitting.

"But we've got business to do."