November 17, 1999
(Environment and Labour)

Monitoring program in place to measure water quality

Oliver Langdon, Minister of Environment and Labour, said today that a monitoring program is already in place to test for levels of THM (trihalomethanes) in public water supplies in this province. THMs are a by-product of the combination of chlorine and organic material and are found in chlorinated water supplies. To date, samples from 194 out of 313 public water supply systems have been collected. Affected communities have been made aware of the results.

"As we receive results of THM levels in water supplies, they are forwarded along with interpretive reports to appropriate municipalities. This is done in an effort to keep municipalities informed about their drinking water quality and other emerging water issues," said the minister. "Of the 194 public water supplies tested, 49 have THM levels which exceed the recommended guideline. The department is working with these municipalities to improve this situation."

The issue of THM levels in water arose several years ago. The Department of Environment and Labour immediately began a regular water testing program around the province. The department has also established an interdepartmental committee to find the most effective options of reducing THM levels. The Town of Gander has been chosen as a pilot project site. The options being assessed include optimization of chlorine dose, use of alternative disinfectants, or assessing the need of other conventional water treatment methods. The committee's findings will be used as a reference to implement THM control measures in other affected communities.

"While it is understandable that people might be concerned about any chemicals in their drinking water, there is no need for alarm. People should continue to use their chlorinated water. Health Canada's evidence indicates that the benefits of chlorinating our drinking water (which reduces the incidence of water-borne diseases) are much greater than the risks of health effects from THMs," said the minister.

The public water supply in this province undergoes regular monitoring to ensure its safety for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Media contact: Sean Kelly, Communications, (7090 729-2575.

1999 11 17                         2:05 p.m.