Gym teacher arrested and charged with sexual offences in Nunavik

WARNING: This article may affect those who have experienced​ ​​​sexual violence or know someone affected by it.

Nunavik police are asking potential witnesses and victims to come forward after they arrested a school gym teacher in northern Quebec on charges of sexual-related offences. 

In January, Nicolas Cyr, 36, was arrested and charged with sexual assault and sexual interference — touching a person under the age of 16 for a sexual purpose. He pleaded not guilty to the charges and was released with conditions. He will be back in court March 4.

Cyr has been a physical education teacher at Jaanimmarik Secondary School and a resident in Kuujjuaq for approximately 14 years, says the Nunavik Police Service.

Patrice Abel, responsible for the investigation unit, says the alleged offences took place at the school and involved a young girl.

He says the investigation began in December after a student came forward with an allegation of inappropriate behaviour.

The largest of 14 communities in Nunavik, Kuujjuaq has over 2,600 residents and there are 378 students at Jaanimmarik school, ranging from Grade 4 to Grade 11.

On Thursday, police asked any other potential victims or witnesses to contact the Nunavik Police Service's Integrated Investigative Unit at 819-964-2400.

Kativik Ilisarniliriniq, the local school board, confirmed that Cyr was suspended as soon as it was made aware of the allegations in November 2024. The allegations have not been proven in court. 

Cyr is currently suspended without pay until the outcome of the trial.

"In this situation, our priority is the well-being of students. Resources were mobilized quickly this morning to provide support to students and staff," the email reads. 

If you're in immediate danger or fear for your safety or that of others around you, please call 911. For support in your area, you can look for crisis lines and local services via the Ending Violence Association of Canada database. ​​