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February 15, 1999
(Municipal and Provincial Affairs)


Lloyd Matthews, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs and Minister responsible for the Emergency Measures Organization (EMO), reported on the status of action being taken to address the rock slide incident at Upper Island Cove. 

Early Sunday morning, a large rock had become dislodged from a cliff on Noel's Road and damaged two vehicles and a house. The area was immediately secured by the fire department and RCMP and no personal  injuries were reported. Residents of the immediate area of the rockfall were relocated to the Royal Canadian Legion. Approximately 15 homes have been evacuated and 40 plus residents have been displaced. Most of those affected have since been relocated with family and friends within the area.

Minister Matthews said that after a preliminary engineering assessment was undertaken on Sunday morning, it was determined that a more in-depth analysis is required. The province has engaged a geological consulting firm to undertake a detailed technical assessment of the situation to determine if any further danger exists and if further mitigation is required. A team led by EMO officials are on site. He said: "As soon as a full analysis is completed, we will advise residents of the results and any necessary action to be taken at that time. We will be providing updated information regarding this incident on an ongoing basis as it becomes available."

Minister Matthews said that the town council, the fire department, the provincial Department of Human Resources and Employment, area MHA John Efford and EMO have been working cooperatively with the residents to provide appropriate assistance.

Media contact: John Doody, Communications, (709) 729-1983

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FACT SHEET

  • A rock fragment (approximate 4' x 6' x 8') sheered off and fell from the top of a hill. Height of hill approximately 200 feet with a steep slope.

  • Rock fragment extensively damaged house (bedroom and chimney), damaged an aluminum shed and crushed car in driveway. Some bricks from driveway damaged car in neighbouring driveway. No persons sustained injuries.

  • Approximately 15 houses were evacuated and 40 plus residents displaced, most have been relocated with family and friends in the area.

  • Preliminary engineering assessment indicates that the area is stabilized, however, EMO has engaged specialists to undertake a detailed analysis to determine if  any further danger exists and if any further mitigation is required.

  • Municipality, fire department, Department of Human Resources and Employment, Emergency Measures Organization and others are working cooperatively to assist displaced residents.

1999 02 15 11:45 a.m.


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