January 28, 2000
(Environment and Labour)
(Government Services and Lands)

Government taking action to address out-of-service underground fuel storage tanks

Environment and Labour Minister Oliver Langdon and Government Services and Lands Minister Ernie McLean said today that government is taking action to address the issue of out-of-service, underground fuel tanks.

In November 1999, the community of Eastport had its water supply contaminated when fuel left in an

out-of-service tank leaked. "That situation demonstrates the need to have out-of-service tanks emptied and removed," Mr. Langdon said.

The current inventory of out-of-service tanks, compiled by the Department of Government Services and Lands, indicates that there are approximately 100 out-of-service tanks in the province.

Mr. McLean said: "While we have had discussions with the owners of these tanks in the past, we are now in the process of contacting them again to ensure that tanks are emptied and removed in accordance with the Storage and Handling of Gasoline and Associated Products Regulations."

Owners of out-of-service fuel storage tanks are required to remove all product and vapours and tanks within designated time frames.

At this time, government does not have any information that leads us to believe any of these tanks in our inventory are leaking. Nevertheless, these tanks should be removed in accordance with the regulations.

Mr. Langdon also said his department is reviewing existing regulations which were introduced in 1982 and will consult with stakeholders in that process.

Mr. McLean said: "While it is important for underground tanks to be installed and maintained properly, it is equally important for tanks to be emptied and removed appropriately when it has been determined that they will no longer be put to use."

The ministers said that officials of both departments will work closely to address this matter and said that pollution prevention will be the key objective.

Media contacts:

Sean Kelly, Communications, Environment and Labour, (709) 729-2575.

Rick Callahan, Communications, Government Services and Lands, (709) 729-4860.

2000 01 28                                                     3:35 p.m.