Mine Air Heavy With Asbestos

Article Added March 3rd, 2006 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story

The government of Newfoundland and Labrador commissioned research which shows that the Baie Verte asbestos mine is laden with airborne asbestos.

Developed in the 1950s, the mine site was run by a succession of owners before permanently closing in 1995. Health concerns have been raised for decades by the mine workers; Canada’s longest health related work stoppage followed these raised concerns. Better workmen’s compensation benefits are still being fought for by the union representing the former miners. A consultant’s report has been in possession of the provincial government for almost a year, but was not released until now.

The former mine produced more than two million tons of asbestos, leaving more than 200 million tons of waste rock, showing that the site is not safe. Airborne asbestos can cause lung cancer, emphysema and mesothelioma. It is likely that airborne fibers can be found throughout the mine. The final report will not be made to the public, even though it was commissioned in 2004. The report is supposedly being held until a further review can be conducted at the site and on the report. Old buildings that had been leased to Northco Forest Products were not inspected, even though local officials think the buildings should have been inspected.

Article Added March 3rd, 2006 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story