'We all make mistakes': Iqaluit residents welcome return of MP Hunter Tootoo

Nunavut MP Hunter Tootoo is meeting with constituents thismorning in Iqaluit, after spending about two months in treatment for alcohol addiction.

Tootoo abruptly resigned as a Liberal cabinet minister at the end of May to seek treatment. He now sits as an Independent after also leaving caucus.

On Monday, Tootoo announced he would hold an open house at his Nunavut constituency office, noting on Twitter that it will be good to be home.

"I'm happy to hear that he will be getting back to the office," said Iqaluit elder Mosesie Attagoyuk.

"As humans, we all make mistakes and we all seek for forgiveness, and that's what he did. He said he wanted to get back to office and he admitted that he needs help."

Some people in the territory raised concerns about not having Tootoo's voice in Parliament, with the mayor of Iqaluit saying it was difficult for the city to access federal funding without an active MP.

Iqaluit resident Saa Qutaiquq says it's important for Tootoo to get back to work so he can represent people in the territory.

"I want him to speak more louder and work harder," she said.

"And listen harder for what Nunavummiut need and what the Nunavut government and Nunavut communities need."

But Qutaiquq added that she's proud of Tootoo for getting back to work.

The open house at Tootoo's Iqaluit constituency office starts at 11 a.m. ET.