(Iqaluit, Nunavut) - The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Member of Parliament for Nunavut, Minister Responsible for the North and Minister of Health today returns to Iqaluit after her latest trip to Canada's High Arctic.
Accompanied by Senator Dennis Patterson (Nunavut), Minister Aglukkaq traveled to the High Arctic visiting constituents in Grise Fiord and Arctic Bay.

Mayor Meeka Kipsigak, SAO Marty Kuluguqtuq, as well as the local Junior Rangers greeted Minister Aglukkaq and Senator Patterson when they arrived in Grise Fiord. While in town, Minister Aglukkaq and Senator Patterson went on a community tour, which included a visit to the Arctic Exiles Monument, designed by Looty Pijimani. The tour of Grise Fiord was followed by a well-attended community feast at which Minister Aglukkaq had the honour of presenting a Long-Time Service Appreciation Award to Aksakjuk Ningiuk.

Minister Aglukkaq later toured the health facility and spoke to the local health personnel about the exciting programs and initiatives that are underway at the centre.

Following Grise Fiord Minister Aglukkaq traveled to Arctic Bay where she met with Mayor Niore Iqalukjuak, SAO Joelie Aamanirq, the local hamlet council, local organizations and community members.
"It is so important that I take the time to speak to - and most importantly listen to – my constituents. I am very happy to say that in the past two years I have been to every single community in Nunavut at least once," said Minister Aglukkaq. "When your riding is the largest in Canada and the challenges are as unique as they are in Canada's Arctic, it is not always easy to get around and speak face-to-face with your constituents. I am proud to work hard for all Nunavummiut and I look forward to continuing that work."

Following the Minister’s meetings, she attended a community feast, where over a hundred community members gathered to meet their Member of Parliament and Senator.

In the evening Minister Aglukkaq and Senator Patterson met with elders in Arctic Bay. The Minister and Senator conclude their trip in Arctic Bay by visiting the local health centre and the local art and heritage centre.
Throughout the High Arctic tour, Minister Aglukkaq and Senator Patterson were joined by Leo Doyle, Acting Director of Nutrition North Canada. Mr. Doyle’s primary focus was to bring factual information to the communities regarding the new Nutrition North Canada program, which comes into effect April 1, 2011.

"It was great to be back in Nunavut's High Arctic," said Minister Aglukkaq. "I look forward to having the opportunity to return again and spend time with my constituents in these beautiful Northern communities."