Residents from five communities — Resolute Bay, Arctic Bay, Grise Fiord, Clyde River and Pond Inlet — are largely opposed to the plan to send sound blasts through the water, saying the sound could adversely affect whales, polar bears and other marine life, and change migration patterns.

The Nunavut government and the federal government argued against the injunction, citing a consultant's report stating the testing would have little or no impact on marine mammals.

But Judge Cooper noted "some aspects of the report ... cause concern." She said the fact the report contains protocols to mitigate the impact of seismic activity on marine wildlife supports the conclusion that there are impacts.

"I am satisfied that Inuit in the five affected communities will suffer irreparable harm if an injunction is not granted," Judge Cooper ruled in granting the injunction.

The group that sought the injunction, the Qikiqtani Inuit Association, stated it welcomed the ruling, however it was unfortunate the Inuit needed to go to court to have their voices heard. The group had maintained that public hearings in May and June did not amount to the "meaningful consultations" required.

"I look forward to the day when the advice of Inuit and their representative organizations is sought prior to seeking project approval," said Okalik Eegeesiak of the Qikiqtani Inuit Association.