Uqqummiut MLA a no-show for 2 days of orientation

A new Nunavut MLA could face penalties after failing to show up for two days of orientation this weekand missing the morning session of today's leadership forum.

Samuel Nuqingaq was elected to represent Uqqummiut. He won the seat after a judicialrecount last week.

He's the first MLA to come from the community of Qikiqtarjuaq.

He was absent from the two days of orientation for MLAs, and arrived at the legislative assembly today at around 2 p.m., four hours after the leadership forum began.

When asked by CBC where he was this morning, Nuqingaq said he was sleeping.He also said he was present for all of the orientation.

John Quirke, clerk of the legislative assembly, says a member who doesn't show up could face a monetary penalty and may be required to pay back airfare, per diems and hotel expenses. He saidthe Management Services Board will deal with thecase.

Quirkesaid thatin the last legislative assembly, anMLAwas suspended for his absences.