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Inuvialuit Regional Corporation’s top executive on leave pending investigation
Former Tuktoyaktuk mayor Erwin Elias will step away from role after 'allegation that predates his election,' in January, says the organization
Inuvialuit Regional Corporation (IRC) chair and CEO Erwin Elias has stepped away from his role and is on leave while an allegation that predates his election is independently investigated, says the organization.
“The IRC board of directors is taking the matter seriously while respecting the integrity of the investigation and the privacy of everyone involved,” read a statement. “IRC expects an update from the investigation in August, and the board is committed to reviewing it promptly and acting quickly to determine next steps.”
During Elias’s leave, vice-chair Jordan McLeod will serve as acting chair.
Mark Fleming, in his role as advisor, will continue to support management with day-to-day operations to ensure stability and continuity.
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- Candidates for chair of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, Lucy Kuptana and Erwin Elias, during the day-long forum and electtion of the organization’s chairperson on Tuesday, January 20th, at the Midnight Sun Complex in Inuvik. The directors of the Inuvialuit Community Corporations were eligible to cast a vote. The IRC Chairperson is elected for a four-year term. (Image: IRC Livestream)
In January, Elias — who is a former mayor of Tuktoyaktuk — bested sitting GNWT cabinet Minister Lucy Kuptana in a final round of voting by Community Corporation directors.
Elias served as Tuktoyaktuk’s mayor from 2019 to 2025 and he focused on climate change, as his community is slowly falling into the Beaufort Sea as the coastline erodes.
Elias stated as leader, he wanted to focus on the younger generation, mental health, employment and housing programs.
Premier R.J. Simpson at the time congratulated Elias on his election, stating he has proven leadership experience and a strong connection to his community.
The IRC noted in its recent statement on Elias that its programs, services and subsidiary operations continue without disruption.
“Because the investigation is ongoing, IRC is not in a position to comment on the specifics of the allegation or the process at this time,” read the statement.
“IRC will provide a further update when it is appropriate to do so.”
At the end of the statement, the IRC noted “support is available for anyone who may be affected by this news,” along with a link to The Hope for Wellness Helpline.
