MLA decries conditions that led Nunavut languages commissioner to quit
'If she were a mining executive, she would get a meeting right away' says Iqaluit MLA Paul Okalik
Iqaluit-Sinaa MLA Paul Okalik says he understands why Sandra Inutiq resigned as Nunavut's languages commissioner but is decrying the working conditions within the Government of Nunavut that led her to do so.
"A lot of her explanations are understandable. It's a very difficult atmosphere at times and challenging for everyone," said Okalik.
Inutiq said she gave up her post because of burnout brought on by what she described as the premier and government's lack of interest in her work to preserve languages.
"It is rather unfortunate because language is one area that binds us together as a territory," said Okalik.
"If she were a mining executive, she would get a meeting right away."
Inutiq described her working relationship with the government as tense, with the atmosphere "very much based on ego and control and fear."
Okalik said other government workers who feel they've been bullied are reluctant to come forward like Inutiq has.
"As it is now, in a lot of situations, if an employee has enough courage to report incidents, a lot of times they're punished. That's not the way to tackle issues at hand."
Okalik asked those people to remain patient, citing the next territorial election.
"Those who are struggling, please stay on, because this will change. We will do whatever we can to change it."