Days after the release of a report by Elections Canada on the events in Nunavik during the federal election, Russ Johnson remains upset and dissatisfied. According to Johnson, the report only contained partial truths and acknowledgments. The report highlighted various deficiencies that led to early closures of polling stations in half of Nunavik’s villages on election day, with some villages not having any voting services at all.
One of the main issues identified was the lack of meaningful engagement with local communities in the election plan approved by Elections Canada headquarters. Additionally, the returning officer failed to conduct essential community outreach before voting day. Johnson, a former resident of Nunavik who volunteered for Liberal MP Mandy Gull-Masty’s campaign in the region, is still seeking clarification on several matters.
He questions why polling staff were allowed to leave early due to adverse weather conditions when accommodations were available. Johnson also wonders why proper community outreach was not carried out. He believes that many of these problems stemmed from operations being managed by individuals from southern regions.
Ivujivik mayor Adamie Kalingo recalled seeing Elections Canada staff briefly visit his community without conducting any voting procedures. He emphasized the feeling of neglect experienced by Nunavimmiut. Kalingo expressed optimism that the report would prompt significant improvements in election processes in Nunavik.
The report highlighted instances where voting services were provided solely by French-speaking staff in locations where Inuktitut and English are the predominant languages. Elections Canada plans to collaborate with each community to recruit and train locals who understand the language and community dynamics. The organization emphasized the importance of early and meaningful engagement moving forward.
The report made several recommendations, including increased engagement by the returning officer with the community, accountability, and the implementation of a formal escalation protocol. It also proposed dedicated teams with expertise in Indigenous and northern community realities to assist in planning and executing elections.
Johnson criticized the recommendation for dedicated teams, stating that it is unnecessary and obvious. He called for an independent audit of the election process in Nunavik, expressing skepticism about the effectiveness of self-policing by those responsible for the shortcomings.
Elections Canada stated that, under its charter, it has the authority to conduct independent audits and inquiries swiftly. Following the election, MP Mandy Gull-Masty announced her intention to introduce a bill in Parliament to address the deficiencies highlighted in the report. Gull-Masty emphasized her commitment to supporting her constituents and holding Elections Canada accountable for necessary changes.
In conclusion, the report’s findings have sparked calls for improved consultation, communication, and accountability in future elections in Nunavik.
