Leaders beat a path to the north

Nunavut residents are seeing something new in this federal election – the party leaders.

Conservative Leader Stephen Harper, Liberal Leader Stéphane Dion and NDP Leader Jack Layton have all made the journey north this campaign to woo northern voters.

This sprawling riding is seen as a key battle to replace the Liberal incumbent who has retired from politics.

Nunavut Premier Paul Okalik was on hand Sunday morning when Dion made his pitch during a news conference on the Iqaluit waterfront.

“We appreciate the attention,” Okalik later told reporters.

“The fact that they’re here is a real improvement. The last few campaigns we never had any party leaders come our way so this is quite something new,” he said.

Okalik is staying neutral in this campaign, saying only that he wishes “them all the best.

“My main concern is how these parties will deliver to the territory and what they promise,” he said.