Ref. #2-3404
GRISE FIORD, NUNAVUT (September 10, 2010) – The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, wrapped up his visit to the High Arctic today following the official unveiling of monuments dedicated to Inuit families relocated from Inukjuak and Pond Inlet to Resolute Bay and Grise Fiord in the 1950s.
Minister Duncan's trip to Resolute Bay and Grise Fiord follows his recent visit to Inukjuak, where he issued an apology on behalf of the Government of Canada for relocating Inuit to the High Arctic, and for the hardship, suffering and loss they experienced as a result of the relocation.
“I have been deeply moved by the stories and experiences relocatees have shared with me over the course of the last few weeks,” said Minister Duncan. “I am honoured to have visited the communities of Inukjuak, Resolute Bay and Grise Fiord and to be a part of these important events that commemorate the hardships endured and the sacrifices made by High Arctic relocatees.”
The Minister met with leading Inuit carvers Simeonie Amagoalik (Resolute Bay) and Looty Pijimani (Grise Fiord), who were commissioned to create the monuments depicting the hardship and suffering of Inuit relocatees as part of The Arctic Exiles Monument Project. The monuments were unveiled by Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI) in Resolute Bay and Grise Fiord on September 8th and September 10th respectively.
The Government of Canada is committed to renewing and building its relationship with Inuit across Inuit Nunangat, and to supporting social and economic development in the North as part of the Northern Strategy.
Minister's Office
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable John Duncan
(819) 997-0002
Media Relations
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
(819) 953-1160
