For a long time, the debate has been on the back burner about how heliskiing should be regulated and coexist with other industries in Kirunafjällen. The popular extreme sport includes skiing from high mountain peaks. The skiers are driven up by helicopter in the spring – in the middle of the calving season for the reindeer herd.
In the past, the industries have tried to find a joint solution on how heliskii will be allowed to conduct their business without disturbing the reindeer. But after years of trying, the situation has only become increasingly infected.
Arouses strong emotions
As in previous years, the Sami villages have applied for flight restrictions. The tourist companies’ response to this arouses strong feelings.
In their letter, the tourism companies say that the Sami village’s proven area for calving land does not match reality. They believe that they have long experience and the competence to determine for themselves where the reindeer are. According to the tourism companies, the Sami villages are lying about the reindeer’s whereabouts in order to pursue a political agenda, instead of protecting the best interests of the reindeer.
– Our only intention with this is to protect the reindeer, says Niila Inga
Harder tone
Those involved with whom SVT Sápmi has been in contact believe that the tone this year is tougher than ever.
– We see that the conflicts are escalating again ahead of this season. For me, it becomes even more clear that the issue of regulation is being addressed – and can quickly move forward, says Åsa Larsson Blind, municipal politician in Kiruna.
Now the case is on the government’s table then the County Administrative Board in Norrbotten required a regulation of the business.
– It is an unsustainable situation, which must be regulated, says Kiruna’s municipal councilor Mats Taaveniku to SVT Sápmi.
SVT Sápmi has been in contact with the tourist companies who do not want to talk to the media but refer to the letter. But say they are happy to look at resuming the dialogue with the Sami villages again.
