Days after Elections Canada published its findings on the Nunavik election issues, Russ Johnson remains frustrated and angered by the revelations. Johnson, speaking from Montreal, expressed dissatisfaction with what he perceives as incomplete disclosures from the report. Elections Canada admitted to multiple 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.
Among the identified problems were a lack of meaningful engagement with local communities, approved by Elections Canada headquarters, and the failure of the returning officer to conduct required community outreach before voting day. Johnson, a former Nunavik resident who volunteered for Liberal MP Mandy Gull-Masty’s campaign in the region, is demanding further explanations for the shortcomings.
Johnson questions the decision to allow polling staff to leave early due to adverse weather conditions despite having secured accommodation. He also emphasizes the importance of community outreach that was neglected. He attributes many of these issues to operations being controlled by individuals from southern regions, particularly from Val d’Or, which he believes undermines the local perspective.
Ivujivik Mayor Adamie Kalingo recalls the brief visit of Elections Canada staff to his community without providing any voting services, highlighting a recurring theme of neglect towards Nunavimmiut. Kalingo emphasized the need for better consultation and communication in future elections, suggesting early preparation and constant communication with local personnel.
Furthermore, the report highlighted instances where voting services were exclusively provided by French-speaking staff in locations where Inuktitut and English are the predominant languages. Elections Canada pledged to collaborate with communities to recruit and train locals who understand the language and cultural context, emphasizing the importance of early and meaningful engagement.
The report recommended increased community engagement, accountability, and the implementation of a formal escalation protocol for returning officers. It also proposed dedicated teams with knowledge of Indigenous and northern realities to assist in election planning and execution. Johnson dismissed the recommendation for dedicated teams, asserting the need for an independent audit to address the election’s handling in Nunavik.
Elections Canada clarified its authority to conduct independent audits and inquiries, opting for an inquiry in Nunavik’s case. Following the election, MP Mandy Gull-Masty expressed her intention to introduce a bill addressing the identified shortcomings from the report, emphasizing the importance of accountability and supporting constituents in the electoral process.