NDP MLA Seeking blood testing to determine toxin levels in Nova Scotians

Tuesday April 17, 2007

Halifax – Michele Raymond, NDP MLA for Halifax Atlantic, is asking Health Minister Chris d’Entremont, to follow in the foot steps of Alberta and begin testing blood samples in Nova Scotia for industrial related toxins.

“In early January, scientists studying mercury levels identified wetlands in central Nova Scotia as one of five known “hot spots” of mercury contamination in eastern North America,â€? says Raymond.

“The Alberta government has embarked on blood testing of more than 30,000 volunteers to establish Albertans’ current levels of toxins in the human population, setting a baseline for future reference.”

Given public concerns over human and environmental health in Nova Scotia, and the government’s commitments to environmental protection and sustainable prosperity, Raymond is requesting that Nova Scotia start a testing program similar to that being carried out in Alberta.

“If we are to accurately gauge environmental impacts on human health in this province, and to work for improvement, we must establish what toxins are showing up in Nova Scotians today,” says Raymond. “ I urge the Minister to begin this work without delay.”

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