November 18, 1999
(Works, Services and Transportation)

The following statement was issued today by Rick Woodford, Minister of Works, Services and Transportation. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

Today I would like to update Members of the House of Assembly on the status of underground fuel storage tanks located throughout the province.

On September 17, leaks were discovered at the underground fuel tank in St. Bride's. A total of 5,600 litres of diesel fuel leaked from the tank.

Since the spill in St. Bride's occurred, I have instructed workers in my department to take daily measurements of the tanks and to submit the results to me every Friday. I am pleased to announce that the reports submitted to me so far indicate that no additional leaks have been found.

There are currently 87 underground tanks in Newfoundland and Labrador, all located on the island portion of the province. The department has issued an order that none of the gas tanks is to be refilled. Our intention is to minimize the number of government-owned fuel sources and maximize use of commercial sources where available. Where no commercial operator is available, we intend to replace underground tanks with above ground tanks.

We already have standing offers in place for 39 tanks, at 20 depots, and have access to commercial operators who will provide the service. It is estimated that the fuel and gasoline presently located in these tanks will be depleted in one to six months. This estimate may be reduced if there is an increase in fuel consumption, which usually occurs when we increase operation of winter equipment.

For the remaining 48 underground tanks, the same steps will be taken to find commercial operators to provide the service. If there is no commercial source available, we will install above ground tanks early in the new year.

The Department of Works, Services and Transportation is taking corrective action to rectify the situation and to prevent other leaks from occurring.

My department's plans have been discussed with the departments of Environment and Labour and Government Services and Lands and they have been made aware of actions to resolve this issue.

Within the next week, the Department of Works, Services and Transportation will notify all other departments within government who use the tanks to make alternate arrangements.

I look forward to updating members on our progress.

1999 11 18 4:20 p.m.