Government moving forward with Phase II Environmental Site Assessment at former mine sites

Ed Byrne, Minister of Natural Resources, announced today that government is moving forward with a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) process for both the former Baie Verte and Rambler Mines properties. This decision is based on recommendations contained in the Phase I ESA studies completed for the department.

"This government, unlike the previous administration is following a course of action that will result in the rehabilitation of these two former mine sites; that is why we awarded two contracts in December 2004 for the Phase I Environmental Site Assessment," said Minister Byrne. "Following a technical review, verification and follow up by my officials government has made the decision to move forward with Phase II of the process."

The recommendations for both sites, arising from the Phase I ESA, include taking measures under Phase II ESA to confirm the presence or absence of environmental contamination at the property and, in particular, sampling and testing of paint, asbestos, soil, water, and sediment on the site, as well as a though assessment of the rehabilitation costs.

Government will select and award a contract for the Phase II ESA by June 2006 with the aim to complete this work by the fall. A detailed assessment of the results of the Phase II ESA will then be conducted by the department to develop a rehabilitation plan for both sites.

"I committed to following through on a course of action that leads to the rehabilitation of these two sites. The Phase II ESA will in part, determine the detailed requirements to guide this process and verify the costs associated with this activity," said Minister Byrne.

The Phase I ESA reports are accessible through the department�s web site and can be found at: www.gov.nl.ca/mines&en/

Media contact: Ed Moriarity, Communications (709) 729-5777, 728-9623

2006 03 16                                2:30 p.m.