In an open letter, Inatsisartut member Jens NapãtôK’ (Naleraq) gives the Naalakkersuisut ten days to provide a public response regarding the poor supply of goods in North Greenland, the villages, and the outlying districts.
– The poor supply of goods in North Greenland, the villages, and the outlying districts is unacceptable. In Upernavik, we are experiencing serious shortages of goods, and the supply of fruits and vegetables is particularly problematic. This affects residents’ daily lives and families’ ability to put proper and varied meals on the table, says Jens NapãtôK’.
“How long does the Naalakkersuisut think citizens should put up with this? And who will take responsibility for ensuring that the situation is resolved?” he asks.
– We live in a country with vast distances and challenging transportation conditions. We know that. That is precisely why supply must be planned properly, and there must be a contingency plan in place when problems arise. The weather and geography must not become a permanent excuse for recurring shortages of goods, says Jens NapãtôK’.
– The residents of Upernavik, the villages, and the other remote areas have just as much right to a stable and reliable supply of goods as the rest of the population. Our address should not determine whether we can buy basic groceries or have access to fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s not enough to talk about health and better living conditions if families can’t get the goods that make that possible in their daily lives, he says.
– Responsibility must not be passed back and forth between stores, suppliers, carriers, and Naalakkersuisut. Those responsible for day-to-day supply must be held accountable for their duties. But Naalakkersuisut has a political responsibility to intervene when the supply chain fails. If Naalakkersuisut remains passive in the face of persistent problems, that passivity effectively amounts to an acceptance of the situation. I will not accept that, says Jens NapãtôK’.
Four Requirements
In the letter, he demands that Naalakkersuisut provide clear answers and take concrete action:
- An explanation of the problems: Why is the supply of goods to Upernavik and the other affected towns and settlements so inadequate? Where is the planning falling short, and who is responsible?
- An emergency plan to address the shortage of goods: What is being done now to ensure the availability of essential groceries and improve access to fruits and vegetables?
- A Sustainable Supply Plan: How will the Naalakkersuisut ensure a more stable supply, better product quality, and contingency planning in the event of delays?
- Clear information for citizens: Citizens need to know which goods are in short supply, when new supplies are expected, and what is being done to resolve the problems.
According to the letter, the response must include a specific timeline and a clear assignment of responsibility.
– It takes more than just assurances that the situation is being monitored. Citizens need to see the improvement on the shelves at their local stores. If those responsible for the supply chain fail to fulfill their duties, the Naalakkersuisut must demand action. If Naalakkersuisut fails to respond, Naalakkersuisut itself must be held accountable for its inaction, he says.
“The residents of North Greenland, the villages, and the outlying districts must be able to count on their problems being taken seriously. We demand a supply chain that works—and a government that takes responsibility when it fails,” says Jens NapãtôK’.
