More concerns raised over Nunavut cabinet shuffle

Another Nunavut MLA is voicing concerns over the premier's recent cabinet shuffle.

Premier Paul Okalik announced Monday that longtime cabinet minister Olayuk Akesuk would no longer be responsible for the Department of Economic Development and Transportation and handed the portfolio over to David Simailak.

But Hunter Tootoo, MLA for Iqaluit Centre, is concerned that Simailak already has enough on his plate as finance minister.

He said Simailak has a lot to deal with in the finance portfolio, including the auditor general's report, territorial formula financing negotiations and devolution talks.

After the cabinet shuffle was announced, the premier's office told CBC News that Okalik wouldn't comment beyond what was written in a press release.

Tootoo said he's disappointed that the premier refused to answer questions, saying it leaves people wondering why he made the decision.

In the press release the premier said the changes will increase financial accountability over government expenditures in the department.

Earlier this week Rankin Inlet North MLA Tagak Curley expressed his concerns and questioned why the premier would take the portfolio away from such a long serving cabinet minister.

Akesuk will continue to be responsible for the Nunavut Housing Corporation.