Tootoo resuming role as MP, but not with Liberal caucus
Nunavut representative out of treatment
OTTAWA — Ex-cabinet minister Hunter Tootoo is returning to his role as MP for Nunavut after undergoing treatment for alcohol addiction, but he’s not rejoining the Liberal caucus, the prime minister’s office says.
During a news conference at his Iqaluit office Wednesday, Tootoo wouldn’t say whether or not he will eventually make a return to the government benches. Cameron Ahmad, spokesman for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, said “his status with regard to the Liberal caucus remains unchanged.”
Speaking to the National Post later in the day, Tootoo reiterated the decision to step down was “mine and mine alone.”
“I know there’s all kinds of rumours out there. That’s politics,” he said.
He said there was no specific incident associated with his departure, saying several times “this has been a very difficult journey” and “there are some deeply personal and private issues that have haunted me.
“I’m taking things one step at a time,” he said.
Specific policy issues Tootoo said he wants to address include infrastructure investment in the North and the “need to drastically change the socio-economic conditions that our families and communities face here.”
Earlier, Tootoo spoke of working through “deeply personal and private issues.” He said alcohol, which has long posed a challenge to several family members, is often used as a coping mechanism for trauma — and trauma is far too common a plight in Aboriginal communities.
“I have personally been affected by those impacts,” Tootoo said. “I am extremely grateful for the patience you have granted me during my healing. I know I let people down — my family, friends and the people of this riding and myself. I have work to do to regain their trust and respect. That work begins now.”
Government House leader Dominic LeBlanc has assumed Tootoo’s responsibilities on the fisheries file.