Olayuk Akesuk facts for kids

Olayuk Akesuk was born in 1965 in Kinngait, Nunavut, Canada. He is a well-known politician from this region. Akesuk served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for the area of South Baffin. He held this important position from 1999 to 2008.

Who is Olayuk Akesuk?

Olayuk Akesuk is a Canadian politician. He comes from the community of Kinngait, which is located in Nunavut. Nunavut is a large territory in northern Canada. Akesuk was elected to represent his community in the government.

Early Political Career

Akesuk first became an MLA in 1999. This was a very special year for Nunavut. It was the first time elections were held in the newly created territory. Before 1999, Nunavut was part of the Northwest Territories.

In the 1999 election, Akesuk won the seat for South Baffin. He defeated another politician named Goo Arlooktoo. Arlooktoo had been a deputy premier in the Northwest Territories. Many people thought Arlooktoo would become the premier of Nunavut. Akesuk's win was a big surprise to many.

Important Roles and Elections

During his time as an MLA, Olayuk Akesuk held several important jobs. He was the Minister of the Environment. This role meant he helped protect Nunavut's natural world. He also looked after the Workers Compensation Board. This board helps people who get hurt at work.

Akesuk was also the Minister responsible for Nunavut housing. This job involved making sure people in Nunavut had good places to live. He worked to improve housing conditions across the territory.

Becoming Health Minister

On September 10, 2008, Akesuk took on another big role. He was appointed as the Health Minister. This happened after Leona Aglukkaq left the position. She stepped down to run in a federal election.

Akesuk did not run for re-election in the 2008 territorial election. He finished his time as an MLA that year.

External links

• Olayuk Akesuk at the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut
• 2004 Nunavut election report at CBC