Iqaluit, Nunavut (July 26, 2011) – Today, Qikiqtani Inuit Association applauded Parks Canada on its 100th year of land and sea protection and preservation.

“National parks are a fabulous way to protect, preserve, and keep as much of the region beautiful the way it is,” said President Okalik Eegeesiak. “On behalf of Inuit of the Qikiqtani region, I would like to congratulate Parks Canada on its centennial year.”

There are four National Parks in Nunavut, three of which are in the Qikiqtani region:

• Quttinniqpaaq, along the upper portion of Ellsmere Island, north of Qausuittuq (Grise Fiord) and Ausuittuq (Resolute Bay) created in 1988;
• Auyuittuq, situated between Pangnirtung and Qikiqtarjuaq created in 1993; and
• Sirmilik, nearby Mittimatalik (Pond Inlet) and Ikpiarjuk (Arctic Bay) created in 2001;

Over and above this, QIA has been discussing with Parks Canada on a possible National Marine Conservation Area around Lancaster Sound as well as another national park on North Bathurst Island. Representatives from Parks Canada, the Government of Nunavut and the Qikiqtani Inuit Association have Steering Committees negotiating Inuit Impact Agreements for the two areas. QIA is the Designated Inuit Organization mandated to represent the interests of Inuit under the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement.

QIA looks forward to working with the federal and territorial governments in recognizing one of the richest natural ecosystems as protected and preserved areas for Canadians and international visitors to enjoy for another 100 years.

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For further information, contact:
David Joanasie
Media Relations Advisor
975-8414
media@qia.ca