 |
|
VICTORIA – Based on the recent Society of Environmental
Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) report presented to the Capital Regional
District (CRD) and additional analysis by the Ministry of Environment, the CRD
has been directed to provide a plan for sewage treatment to the provincial
government no later than June 2007, Environment Minister Barry Penner announced
today.
Currently, the CRD releases its sewage into the
ocean untreated, relying on water dilution and the ocean currents. As recent
analysis shows, including the SETAC report, historic and projected population
growth in the capital region makes natural dilution unsustainable.
Therefore, in accordance with section 24 (3) (a) of
the Environmental Management Act, the ministry is directing the CRD board to
submit for approval no later than June 30, 2007, an amendment to the CRD Core
Area Liquid Waste Management Plan detailing a fixed schedule for the provision
of sewage treatment.
Further, in accordance with section 24 (3) (b), the
minister is requiring the CRD to provide an interim progress report on this
amendment no later than December 31, 2006. The report should outline options
relating to the type, number and location of facilities, preliminary costs of
treatment, as well as a proposed implementation schedule.
To ensure value for taxpayers, the CRD is
encouraged to consider new technologies and alternative financing and delivery
options, including the potential for private sector involvement.
-30-
|
contact: |
Communications Director Ministry of Environment 250 387-9973 |
|
|
|
||
|
For more information on government services or to subscribe to the Province’s news feeds using RSS, visit the Province’s website at www.gov.bc.ca. |
||
