Commissioner of Nunavut facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Commissioner of Nunavut |
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Flag of the Commissioner of Nunavut
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Badge of the Commissioner of Nunavut
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| Style | The Honourable |
| Appointer | Governor-in-Council |
| Formation | April 1, 1999 |
| First holder | Helen Maksagak |
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The Commissioner of Nunavut (Inuktitut: ᑲᒥᓯᓇ ᓄᓇᕗᒧᑦ; Inuinnaqtun: Kamisinauyuq Nunavunmut; French: Commissaire du Nunavut) is a very important person. They represent the Government of Canada in the territory of Nunavut. Think of them as the federal government's main contact and helper in Nunavut.
The current Commissioner is Eva Aariak. She has held this role since January 14, 2021.
The Commissioner has many important jobs. They are similar to the jobs of lieutenant governors in Canada's provinces. For example, the Commissioner helps swear in new members of the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut. They also approve new laws for the territory.
However, there is one key difference. The Commissioner of Nunavut represents the Canadian government. They do not represent the King or Queen of Canada directly, like a lieutenant governor does.
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History of the Commissioner's Role
The job of Commissioner was created in 1999. This happened when Nunavut became its own territory.
Like other territorial commissioners, the Commissioner is chosen by the Government of Canada. They act as a representative for the Canadian government in Nunavut.
Here is a list of the people who have served as Commissioner of Nunavut. It also shows who was the Premier of Nunavut at the same time.
| # | Name | Term | Premiers |
| 1 | Helen Maksagak | 1999–2000 | Paul Okalik |
| 2 | Peter Irniq | 2000–2005 | Paul Okalik |
| 3 | Ann Meekitjuk Hanson | 2005–2010 | Paul Okalik |
| Eva Aariak | |||
| – | Nellie Kusugak (acting) | 2010 | Eva Aariak |
| 4 | Edna Elias | 2010–2015 | Eva Aariak |
| Peter Taptuna | |||
| 5 | Nellie Kusugak | 2015–2020 | Peter Taptuna |
| Paul Quassa | |||
| Joe Savikataaq | |||
| – | Rebekah Williams (acting) | 2020–2021 | Joe Savikataaq |
| 6 | Eva Aariak | 2021–present | Joe Savikataaq |
| P.J. Akeeagok |
Note: Before April 1, 1999, Nunavut was part of the Northwest Territories. The Commissioners for that time are listed under Commissioners of Northwest Territories.
The Deputy Commissioner Role
The job of Deputy Commissioner was created in 2005. This was done to make Nunavut's government similar to that of Yukon and the Northwest Territories.
| Name | Term |
| Helen Maksagak | 2005–2009 |
| Nellie Kusugak | 2010–2015 |
| Rebekah Williams | 2019–present |
What Does the Commissioner Do?
The Commissioner of Nunavut has several important duties. These duties are much like those of the lieutenant governors in Canada's provinces.
However, there is a key difference. Commissioners represent the Government of Canada. They do not represent the King or Queen of Canada directly.
Some of their main duties include:
- Swearing in officials: The Commissioner officially swears in members of the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut. This means they help these elected people take their oath of office.
- Approving laws: After the Legislative Assembly passes a new law, the Commissioner gives it final approval. This makes the law official.
- Representing Canada: The Commissioner acts as a link between the federal government and the people of Nunavut. They attend important events and ceremonies.
- Upholding the law: They ensure that the laws and rules of Canada are followed in the territory.
The Commissioner plays a vital role in the government of Nunavut. They help ensure that the territory runs smoothly and connects with the rest of Canada.
