Homelessness a major issue for Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet candidates

By William Koblensky Varela, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Nunavut News Homelessness, housing and the lack of shelter options for residents travelling to see a doctor are among the biggest issues for the two Rankin Inlet North-Chesterfield Inlet candidates in the upcoming territorial election. Incumbent MLA Alexander Sammurtok said part of what is driving the issue is a lack of facilities. “When people are travelling to Rankin Inlet for medical reasons, and the plane is cancelled due to weather or mechanical issues, the patients have no place to go when the hotels are full. I’ve been advocating for a transfer centre to be built in Rankin Inlet,” Sammurtok said. Challenger Cathy Q Towtongie said economic and federal programs are a major driver of poverty in the hamlets. “Cost of living —…

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