Thank you, Madam Speaker. On last Wednesday, October 19th, three individuals left Umingmaktok by snowmobile to set fish nets on a lake approximately 30 miles from the community.
John Nanegoak and his niece, Carol Kiloadluk, were on a snowmobile and sled while Doug Stern travelled on his snowmobile. As both Mr. Nanegoak and Mr. Stern are well-seasoned veterans of on-the-land travel, they tested the ice thickness of lakes they travelled on throughout their trip.
After setting his net, Mr. Nanegoak and his niece left first to return to the community by following their same trail. Unfortunately, their trip ended tragically as they broke through the ice before making it back to the land.
It's with deep regret that I announce the passing of the well-respected elder, Mr. John Nanegoak, as a result of an accidental drowning.
Having met John Nanegoak in the early 1980s, I had the greatest respect for him as one of the few remaining individuals living a traditional lifestyle. He was one of the kindest, most carefree and unselfish individuals I have ever had the pleasure of knowing.
Mr. Nanegoak leaves behind a daughter, Jessie Hagialok of Bathurst Inlet; a son and daughter-in-law, Ikey and Helen Nanegoak of Cambridge Bay; two brothers, Tommy Maghagak also of Cambridge Bay and Charlie Keyok of Umingmaktok. He also leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, a great grandchild and dozens of other friends and relatives. My condolences to all family and friends of John Nanegoak on their tragic loss.
Mr. Nanegoak was born and raised in the Bathurst Inlet area and most recently was a resident of Umingmaktok. Many friends and family were brought from Cambridge Bay and Bathurst Inlet to attend the funeral service this past Saturday in Umingmaktok prior to shipping Mr. Nanegoak to his final resting place in Bathurst Inlet.
Madam Speaker, there is one positive side to this tragedy. The young girl, Carol Kiloadluk, was saved from drowning by Mr. Doug Stern, who risked his life by going out on the broken ice and into the water to rescue her, upon his discovering the mishap on his way home.
A lesson to all as a result of this unfortunate incident; that no matter how experienced you are with travelling on the land, always be extra cautious if you have to travel across ice.
Madam Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to conclude my statement, please.