Peter Taqtu Irniq
Email: PIrniq@gov.nu.ca
Commissioner of Nunavut (April 1, 2000 – March 31, 2005)
Box 982
Iqaluit, NU XOA OHO

Peter has lived most of his life in the Keewatin Region, including Naujaat-Repulse Bay, Salliq (Coral Harbour) Qamanit'tuaq (Baker Lake) Igluligaarjuk (Chesterfield Inlet) and Kangiq&iniq (Rankin Inlet). He has also lived and worked in the Western Arctic, in Manitoba, and Ontario. He is presently a resident in Iqaluit and has a family with two of four children still living at home; he also has one grandchild.

As Commissioner of Nunavut his functions are equivalent to those of provincial Lieutenant Governors. His position is ceremonial. He read the Throne Speech and sign all the laws passed by the Nunavut Legislative Assembly. When appointed, he chose to promote the Inuit language, culture and traditions, such as Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit, which is Inuit traditional knowledge. The Commissioner grants, on the recommendation of Nunavutmiut, yearly awards in four areas: Bravery, Volunteer, Youth and Special Skills.

As Commissioner his commitment is to connect people from different parts of Canada and also outside of Canada to Nunavut as a territory and to Nunavuitmuit as people. He tries to build partnerships and encourage teamwork among people through personal appearances and speeches about Inuit history and the creation of Nunavut, delivered across the country. He acts as a “good will ambassador” outside of Canada, encouraging others to come and visit Nunavut.