Western Construction Limited and Blastech Consulting Limited are engaged in rock blasting to make way for the construction of a new four- lane portion of the Trans-Canada Highway through Pasadena.

Incidents of flyrock caused by this work in June resulted in the Department of Environment and Labour issuing a Stop Work Order on July 4, 1997.

Since that time Western Construction has engaged a specialist in explosives and blasting to revise their blasting procedures. The new procedures have been reviewed by the Department of Environment and Labour and accordingly a decision to lift the Stop Work Order has been made.

The company will continue to advise the public of blasting activities through the news media, door to door visits, bulletins and a blasting signal. Blasting will only occur at 7 p.m.

Flyrock is not anticipated with the new procedure, however for public safety, the company will, well in advance of the blast, evacuate all people near the blast and prevent anyone from entering the area.

In the unlikely event of property damage, the company will ensure restitution.

The department will continue to monitor the operation to ensure that the new procedures are followed and public safety is protected.

Contact: Gary Callahan, (709) 729-1983.