September 7, 1999
(Environment and Labour)

Results of study into Westport environmental conditions released

Oliver Langdon, Minister of Environment and Labour, today announced the results of the independent soil quality analysis conducted by an environmental engineering consulting firm, AGRA Earth and Environmental Ltd., in areas near the former Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro diesel generating plant in Westport on the Baie Verte peninsula.

Minister Langdon, accompanied by health and environment officials and the AGRA consultant, Bevin LeDrew, met with concerned citizens from the area to explain the report findings and to outline government's response and next steps.

"Government is taking all necessary steps to address the concerns of the residents of Westport," said Minister Langdon. "We take their concerns very seriously, and I hope that when the investigations are completed they will provide some measure of reassurance for the community."

AGRA Earth and Environmental Ltd took soil samples from 16 test pits in consultation with local residents. The soil samples were analyzed at a certified laboratory and were tested for PCBs and hydrocarbons.

Sampling and testing showed that petroleum hydrocarbon concentrations in the soil on and immediately adjacent to the former diesel generating plant exceeded the environmental standards. Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro has been directed to continue with their cleanup operations to ensure the entire site meets with provincial environmental standards.

In addition, trace levels of PCBs were found in two of the 16 test pits. One was near the plant and is likely due to the plant operation. The other was located approximately 180 metres from the plant and cannot be explained at this time. In this regard, Hydro has been directed to undertake further environmental investigations into the extent, levels and source of the PCBs.

Further to the environmental study that will be undertaken, Dr. Sharon Buehler of Memorial University is in the process of studying the cancer rates in the region over the past 20 years. Her report is expected within a few weeks.

Also, AGRA Earth and Environmental will take water samples from the community water system and have them analyzed for the existence of any chemicals including PCBs.

"While the investigation to date has not revealed any results that warrant major concerns for community residents, the presence of trace levels of PCBs, coupled with rumors of transformers having been buried in the area many years ago, warrants that further investigation be undertaken," said Minister Langdon. "I want to reassure the residents of Westport that the investigation will be very thorough."

Media contact: Sean Kelly, Director of Communications, (709) 729-2575.

1999 09 07                          2:05 p.m.