Darrell Greer
Northern News Services

Rankin Inlet (May 15/02) - Northern Transportation Company Ltd. is doing everything it can to address the bad gas problem plaguing the Kivalliq, says the company's president.

Clifford Abraham says NTCL is concerned with the impact the gas may have on hunters and trappers who rely on snowmobiles for their livelihoods.

He says NTCL is working closely with the Nunavut government to try and find solutions to the gas problem.

"It has been a very complex task and we'd like to believe things are moving ahead and some answers will be forthcoming shortly," says Abraham.

"The important thing for us is that people be very cautious using their machines until answers are available. We don't want to see anyone get themselves in a dangerous situation."

Abraham says there's no short answer as to how the tainted American supplied gas passed initial quality-control procedures.

He says that's part of the reason behind the painfully long time in determining the exact nature of the problem.

"It has turned out to be a complex issue and that, unfortunately, is the nature of the problems that seem to have been discovered with the gasoline.

"All we can do is continue to work closely with the NG, and offer any advice or assistance we can to find solutions to the problem."

From a corporate perspective, Abraham says NTCL is hoping the tainted gas doesn't lead to consumers losing faith in the company.

He says purchasing strictly Canadian is a strong consideration for the future after the problems with this year's gas.

"The NG, in issuing its requests for proposals in fuel resupply in the future, has indicated a strong preference for Canadian-sourced fuel. We can certainly understand where the government is coming from in that respect."

Abraham declined to comment on how NTCL plans to address any possible litigation on financial responsibility concerning the tainted gas.

Many Nunavummiut are claiming their machines were ruined, or needed costly repairs, due to the bad gas and are seeking compensation.

"I don't want to speculate on issues which may crop up down the road. We're focusing on the problems at hand and will deal with any other issues if, and when, they materialize."