Brent Reaney
Northern News Services

Iqaluit (July 25/05) - A gas compensation program announced two weeks ago by the territory's gasoline supplier and the Government of Nunavut does not go far enough and is too complicated, says the head of Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.

The program applies to people in all Kivalliq communities except Whale Cove, as well as Hall Beach, Iglulik and Sanikiluaq, found to have experienced gas-induced spark plug fouling in extremely cold weather.

Without a receipt, those affected can claim $6 per plug up to a maximum of 30 - or $180 - in gas vouchers per vehicle. Gas supplier Shell Canada will be providing the vouchers.

But considering the high cost of living in the North, and the harvesting time lost by hunters this past winter, NTI president Paul Kaludjak said this money is not enough.

"We wanted Shell Canada to be a little more merciful to people that broke down," he said.

People wishing to claim more than $180 will need receipts - something Kaludjak said was "a little bit ridiculous" to expect.

"Many Inuit don't keep receipts for parts that they buy in Nunavut," he said.

In order to claim engine damage, snowmachine and ATV owners are expected to provide proof of proper engine maintenance, along with other documentation.

Shell spokesperson Denita Davis said the compensation deal has already been approved by cabinet and the company has investigated every complaint brought forward.

Shell's research has not shown the gas to have caused any permanent damage, but Davis said the company is willing to deal with any additional reported problems.

An administrator will be hired for the engine damage claims process, Davis said, and an 800-number will be established.

"There will be assistance provided to help people go through the process," she said.

Kaludjak suggested a similar solution to the 2002 bad gas scenario, where photos of damaged engines and inspections by insurance adjusters were sufficient evidence.

Davis said the engine damage claims process is a standard company procedure.

To date, Shell Canada has spent $500,000 dealing with gasoline supply problems in Nunavut.

Calls to the Government of Nunavut's communications department were not returned before deadline.