David Joanasie
Canadian Inuk politician
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David Joanasie is a Canadian Inuk politician from Cape Dorset, Nunavut. He was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut in the 2013 election.[1] He represents the electoral district of South Baffin. Joanasie is the current Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut.[2]
David Joanasie | |
|---|---|
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| 13th Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut | |
| Assumed office November 18, 2025 | |
| Preceded by | Tony Akoak |
| Member of the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut for South Baffin | |
| Assumed office October 28, 2013 | |
| Preceded by | Fred Schell |
| Personal details | |
| Party | non-partisan consensus government |
Education
David attended school at Kinngait and learned Inuktitut up until third grade. He graduated from Peter Pitseolak High School in 2001 and was interested in mathematics. He eventually earned a certificate in business communication from Saint Mary’s University in Halifax and a diploma from Algonquin College.[3]
Career
Pre-legislative assembly
Before his election, he was the Communications Manager of the Qikiqtani Inuit Association and worked for the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami.[4]
Elections
He was elected twice to serve in the 5th Legislative Assembly of Nunavut. He was re-elected to represent the constituency of South Baffin. He was also elected to serve in the Executive Council on November 17, 2017. He was sworn into office on November 21, 2017. He currently serves as the Minister of Education, Minister of Culture and Heritage, and Minister of Languages.[4]
Personal life
David is married to Emily Joanasie, and together they have five children: Sayri, Cynthia, Qulittalik, Pittaaluk, and Pattu.[4]
In July 2013, David was arrested for drunk driving in Prince Edward Island. He pleaded guilty and was sent to jail,[5] paying a $1200 fine and $500 in victim sub-charges.[6]