Today I’d like to talk about a community event that is truly a community event, the muskox hunt that will be soon be happening in Sachs Harbour. In talking to community members, the hunt is a very good thing for the whole community. Currently there are 16 residents employed for the hunt in the cutting and distribution of the harvested meat. As many as 30 people will be put to work — not bad for a community of 115 people.
In addition to the meat, the hunt will provide an immediate economic boost for the community, as plans are underway to sell the delicious meat throughout the Northwest Territories, as well as selling the kiviat to buyers all the way over to Italy. A total of 500 muskox will be harvested. That’s a lot of freezer space, Mr. Speaker.
The community hasn’t had a hunt since 2005, so it has been three years in the waiting. I’d like to recognize the efforts of a few key individuals who worked hard to make this happen. Mr. Warren Esau of the local hunters and trappers association has been working hard since last summer, and his efforts have been rewarded. Mr. Speaker, I also would like to acknowledge the elders of the community and the important role they play in guiding and keeping this traditional event alive and well. I am not sure if all of you have had the opportunity to taste this truly Northern delicacy, but if you have the opportunity, I recommend it. You won’t be disappointed.
Good luck to the hunters and to the community. I look forward to some freshly hunted muskox meat. By the way, Mr. Speaker, I just got off the phone with the mayor, Bob Eldridge. The temperature is minus 51 with the wind chill in the community, and they’re still heading out.
Mr. Speaker, I’d like to take the time to thank the Minister of ITI, Mr. Bob McLeod, and his staff for making this muskox hunt possible for the community.
