Alexander Samrtok urges patience as police and other law enforcement agencies continue to investigate
As the investigation into the deaths of two young residents at Chesterfield Inlet group home Nadja Isabel continues, the community’s MLA is urging residents not to spread rumors and wait for answers.
Family Services Minister Margaret Nakashuk announced last week that multiple investigations were underway into the deaths of a 12-year-old and a 19-year-old at a facility run by Pimakslivik, which serves young people with specialized medical needs.
Nunavut Coroner Ken Sagadraka and the RCMP are investigating, and the Nunavut government has hired a third party to look into what GN described as a “serious incident” at the home.
Sagadraca confirmed that a 19-year-old boy died outside its territory on October 17, and a 12-year-old boy died on January 6. Their names and genders have not been released.
At Thursday’s council meeting, Rankin Inlet-Northchesterfield Inlet MLA Alexander Samultuk thanked Nakashuk for reaching out to him directly about the issue.
He called on the GN to be “clear and proactive” in addressing the issue.
Rumors can spread if people don’t have all the information they need, Samrtok said.
“It is unfortunate that a lack of clarity and direct information leads to speculation and rumors,” he said in a statement to members.
“We appreciate that we must respect issues of privacy and confidentiality and the rights of families.”
Mr Samultok encouraged the community to be patient while the investigation continues and to ensure people are not sentenced prematurely.
“It is also important that all parties involved are treated fairly and without prejudice until all the facts are known,” he said.
“Lives have been lost. It is important that other people’s lives are not ruined by hot gossip, rumors and speculation that can easily fill the void created by a lack of information.”
During the interrogation, Mr. Samrtok asked Mr. Nakashuk to provide further information regarding the investigation. However, Nakashuk did not respond beyond what had been previously announced.
Ms Samrtok also asked what her department was doing to support local staff and customers at Nadja Isabel’s House.
“We can find ways to provide support [to staff]but they are office workers [therefore] That is a barrier for the government,” Nakashuk said.
“We have to take care of our clients and make sure they are in a safe place.”
