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John Halkett didn't provide a photo by publishing. (file photo/paNOW Staff)
band election

Halkett seeking direction as he begins term on LLRIB council

Jun 3, 2020 | 5:00 PM

Lac La Ronge Indian Band Coun. John Halkett wants to know from fellow Little Red River residents what they would like to see done in the community.

Halkett was elected as a councillor after the general election last week having received 92 votes to beat incumbent Angus Mirasty, who received 67. Keith Mirasty earned the most votes in the three-way race and kept his position with 134.

Halkett, who in the past served multiple terms on council, noted he didn’t expect to be nominated to run for council as he had told supporters he was happy with his job as a local grader operator.

“They showed up at the nomination meeting and nominated me any way, so I didn’t want to disappoint them,” he said. “I have to thank my nominator, seconder and everyone who voted for me. I asked them what they want me to do and what they want to see, but they don’t have any answers right now. I’ve been telling them to tell me what to do.”

Personally, Halkett would like to work on bringing more sports and recreation to Little Red River. The community is lacking in that area, he said, and what’s currently being done is minimal. Halkett also has a passion for sports and he explained it will keep the youth busy, provide direction and create leaders out of band members.

Halkett described the first week as a councillor as quiet, adding the main office is closed to the public and he still doesn’t have a space to work from.

“I just want to congratulate the council and the incumbents who were re-elected,” he said. “Without chief and council support, none of us will get anything done. We have to work as a team.”

derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno