Well-known community leaders Anthony Ittoshat and Tunu Napartuk have been selected by Makivik Corporation to assume the role of Self-Determination negotiators, leading Nunavik’s discussions with both the Canadian and Quebec governments.
The two were chosen for the shared role from a slate of highly qualified candidates following an extensive interview process and began work at the end of April. Makivvik President Pita Aatami expressed his satisfaction with the selection.
“I am confident that Anthony Ittoshat and Tunu Napartuk are the right people to represent Nunavik’s interests in these negotiations,” he said. “Makivvik is pleased to have selected two exceptional leaders whose combined professional and negotiating experience can only benefit our efforts. I am confident that their expertise, dedication, and passion for Inuit rights will help us achieve meaningful progress in our pursuit of self-determination.”
Anthony Ittoshat, the mayor of Kuujjuarapik, has been actively involved for many years in initiatives to promote the rights and well-being of Nunavik Inuit. He has significant experience as a negotiator including on the Great Whale River Project, the Sanarrutik Agreement as well as the Nunavik Inuit Land Claims Agreement (NILCA). Ittoshat was previously an elected member of the Makivvik executive team and served as the organization’s treasurer for nearly 15 years.
Tunu Napartuk is a respected community leader and negotiator. The former mayor of Kuujjuaq has a strong track record of advocating for Inuit rights and has been involved in several initiatives aimed at promoting economic development and self-sufficiency in the region. He is fluent in Inuktitut, English, and French and has experience negotiating as a member of the union at the Kativik Regional Government (KRG), as well as with the union as a member of KRG’s executive.
Interviews with candidates were held through the end of last January. Each was asked questions related to the Self-Determination mandate, including their experience interacting with various levels of government, understanding of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement and the NILCA, as well as their negotiating and professional experience.
Moving negotiations forward on self-determination is of the utmost importance to Makivvik. The corporation has stated it will continue to work closely with Anthony Ittoshat, Tunu Napartuk, and other actual advisors and stakeholders to ensure that the rights and interests of Inuit are fully represented in the negotiation process.
