Chlorine purchased by 11 municipalities to disinfect water supplies has been recalled by the distributor due to contamination.

Eleven communities in the province are on a non-consumption water advisory due to contamination. Agent Cordiere LCV, a scented product, has been found in a chlorination product purchased by these municipalities used to disinfect the water supply.

"Our government is taking a proactive approach to avert the slightest possible risk to consumers," said the Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister of Environment and Conservation. "Health Canada has completed a health risk assessment of the chemical involved upon our request."

"We have been working closely with the departments of Environment and Conservation, and Government Services, and our regional health authorities on this matter," said the Honourable Ross Wiseman, Minister of Health and Community Services. "We are reassured by the findings of Health Canada that the potential for health risks are low and that the precautionary measures taken were appropriate."

The affected communities are: Lewisporte, Cupids, Tizzards Harbour, Gander Bay South, Port aux Port West, Whiteway, Terrenceville, Rushoon, Normans Cove Long Cove, Wabana and Harbour Main. Municipalities have been notified by officials from the departments of Environment and Conservation, and Government Services to stop using the product immediately. They were also contacted by the manufacturer and advised to return any unused product.