Raymond calls for water testing for heavy metal contanination in Harrietsfield

Wednesday August 31, 2005

Halifax – Michele Raymond, NDP MLA for Halifax Atlantic, is calling on the Minister of Environment and Labour, Kerry Morash, to report to her community on provincial assistance for water testing. On April 27, 2005 during the last sitting of the Legislature, the Minister promised Raymond that he and his Department would look at water testing in Halifax Atlantic.

“Last spring I asked the Minister to test the water in Harrietsfield, and to report back,� says Raymond. “The Minister committed to look into it, but so far nothing.�

“In the meantime many residents suspect that their water may be contaminated by heavy metals like mercury, but without the $1,200 each well it costs for the specific test, they are left just to worry and hope for the best.�

Raymond points to the widespread fear that contaminated soil, flourescent lights, electronic waste, paint, and insulation has been disposed of in the area for over twenty years, contaminating the water table. She notes that many residents can only afford to do basic well testing every few years, and only a few can afford the much more detailed tests for heavy metals.

“It makes no sense to me that this government is willing to abandon this community to the possibility of very serious illnesses without helping them at least get the information they need to protect themselves.�

“The Minister promised us he would consider water testing for the area. We are still waiting to hear from him.�

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