Iqaluit microbrewery gets positive feedback at public meeting

Nunavut-brewed beer might soon be a reality after apublic consultation for a proposed microbrewery was held last night in Iqaluit andno one opposed the project.

"This is the easiest public consultation I've ever heard," said Nunavut Liquor Licensing Boardchair David Wilman.

The Nunavut Brewery Companywants to start producing and selling beer in the territory.It received the go-ahead from city council in July, but still needs approval from the Liquor Licensing Board.

At a public consultation held by the board Wednesday night, every single person who spoke up was on board with the project, including resident Stephen Leyden.

"Craft beer has exploded," he said.

"There are a lot of styles of beer that Iqalummiut are being denied just because of the way our beer comes here."

Sheldon Nimchukof the Nunavut Brewery Companysaid his business would create up to 10 new jobs.

"We believe this is about taking Nunavut forward, creating a local manufacturing opportunity and perhaps creating a little bit of an export situation as opposed to what we traditionally rely on importing everything to Nunavut."

Nimchuksaida portion of the profits would go to promote responsible drinking.

Many residents said they hope the project will boost tourism, and some cited the success of the Yukon Brewing Company in Whitehorse.

The meeting lasted about 40 minutes.

The board is expected to make a decision in the next few weeks. Nimchuk said he aims to have his brewery up and running by March 2017.