Accessing federal help a challenge without MP Hunter Tootoo, says Iqaluit mayor

Nunavut MP Hunter Tootoo's Iqaluitconstituencyoffice will beup and runningin the next couple of weeks, but one local politician says what constituents need is access to their MP.

Tootooresigned from his cabinet position and stepped down from the Liberal caucusMay 31to seek treatment for addictions issues.It's not clear when he will return to work.

"We really, really need access to our MP," said Iqaluit MayorMadeleineRedfern.

She saidconstituents need Tootooto help with thingssuch asexpediting passports, and thecity needs his help to assist with access to federal funding.

"There are many other projects the city has that it desperately needs federal funding for and having our MP be part of caucus, and in thatcase when he was a minister, being able to champion our projects and secure that funding for us, is a tremendous benefit. It's going to be much, much harder if he remains as an independent."

'He will come back stronger'

Tootoo's office said in a statement that they are "in the process of finalizing staffing and we expect to have the local MP's office fully functional in the next couple weeks. In the meantime, constituents should contact the Ottawa office at 613-992-2848.

"Mr. Tootoo continues to request privacy at this time.

"As the MP, Mr. Tootoo continues to be a strong advocate for his constituents. He maintains connections in Ottawa, and I'm confident he will come back stronger after treatment. The office is committed to seeing constituency issues managed no differently than before."

NunavutPremier Peter Taptuna reaffirmed his support for Tootoo in an email to CBC.

"As mentioned during this past legislative sitting, we are supportive of Mr. Tootoo and his journey to recovery," he wrote. "We look forward to having the MP return to Parliament."

Redfernsaid shealso wishes the best for Tootoo and said shehopes that when he returns to Parliament it will be as part of the Liberal caucus.