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NEW NUNAVUT COMMISSIONER APPOINTED

IQALUIT, NUNAVUT (April 11, 2005) - The Honourable Andy Scott, Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians today announced that Ann Meekitjuk Hanson has been named the third Commissioner of Nunavut.

“I am pleased to welcome Ms. Hanson to her new position. Her decades of work in public service, arts, the media and as a volunteer have helped bring Nunavut’s story to the world. I am pleased to offer the congratulations of the Government of Canada as she opens another chapter in her remarkable career,” said Minister Scott.

“Ms. Hanson has distinguished herself in her many fields and has always served as a great ambassador for Nunavut. I look forward to working with her as she takes up her new role as Commissioner,” said Nancy Karetak-Lindell, Nunavut Member of Parliament.

Under the Nunavut Act, the Commissioner of Nunavut is the chief executive officer of the territory. The responsibilities of the commissioners have evolved to become similar to the provincial lieutenant governor. During Legislative Assembly sessions, the commissioner reads the opening address, gives formal assent to bills passed by the Legislative Assembly, has formal signing authority on certain matters, and closes the session.

For more information on this release, please contact:

Campbell Morrison
Press Secretary
Minister Andy Scott's Office
INAC
(819) 997-0002

Backgrounder - Biography of Ann Meekitjuk Hanson - Nunavut Commissioner

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