Nunavut Arctic College says Old Res is safe

Nunavut Arctic College says the dorm and classroom building known as theOld Residence in Iqaluit is safe for staff and students, despite staff concerns that recent renovations may have exposed asbestos.

Eric Corneau is the Dean for Arctic College's Nunatta campus.

He says those concerns are legitimate and need to be addressed.

But were working really hard with the various government departments to make sure were fulfilling our obligations as a college and making sure our staff and students are safe."

About 60 students live in the building, which residents call the Old Res.There are also a dozen people working there.

Corneau says he held a meeting last week to tell students about the repairs, but some may have missed it.

He also says the college knew asbestos was present when contractors began removing mould from parts of the building and that students and staff would be moved out of the building if they were in danger.

The Nunavut government hired Qikiqtaaluk Logistics for the renovations.

Corneau says he is satisfied with the precautions workers are taking.