The site of the future Qikiqtarjuaq deepsea port is roughly a kilometre south of the community’s airport. It awaits the start of construction expected in 2026. (Photo by Arty Sarkisian)
Project idea that has been around since the 1950s might finally come to fruition
One of the first things a visitor to Qikiqtarjuaq sees when they land at the hamlet’s tiny airport is a map of the deepsea port. It’s like the long-promised facility is already there to welcome sealift ships, fishing boats and cruises.
Salomonie Arnaquq, left, boards Iqaluit’s new elder van Friday morning. Next to him is driver Mason Pauloosie. Arnaquq was the first passenger of the new service, which is running Fridays through Mondays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. until the end of the month. The service is operated by Northern Future Skills Development, Arctic Training Ltd., and Caribou Cabs, using a vehicle that was paid for by the Government of Nunavut. Elders and people with mobility issues can call 867-877-1215 for a free ride. (Photo by Jeff Pelletier)