Lori Idlout found to have breached conflict of interest code

Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner Konrad von Finckenstein has found that Nunavut MP Lori Idlout contravened the House of Commons conflict of interest code.

Between 2024 and 2025, Idlout claimed reimbursements for approximately $1,906 in gifts purchased from Carvings Nunavut, a business she owns. These items were gifted to various individuals, including First Nations leaders, Elders, and government officials. Additionally, Idlout used taxpayer funds to book a stay at Al’s B&B, a bed and breakfast owned by her husband, after a hotel in Sanirajak was fully booked.

Von Finckenstein noted that while Idlout made errors in judgment, she acted in “good faith” and did not realize the purchases would further her or her spouse’s private interests. Because Idlout repaid the House of Commons the full amounts as soon as the errors were identified, the commissioner recommended that no sanctions be imposed.