Regional Councillor wanted public health helping in GM cleanup, but told it's not in the department's jurisdiction
Niagara Region Public Health will not be taking part in an environmental assessment, cleanup and redevelopment of the old GM plant in St. Catharines.
Councillor Haley Bateman had asked public health's Environmental Division to review health risk assessments, remediation plans, along with regular public reporting on the site's cleanup.
She writes there was consultion between the Regional Chair's office, the CAO and the region's Medical Officer of Health, who deemed the Ontario government is the primary regulatory authority, so this falls outside the region's jurisdiction.
Furthermore, when asked if she agreed with the region's decision, acting Chair Barbara Greenwood said "yes".
Also, as per procedural by-law, a motion needs a mover and seconder to advance, and a second vote was not made.
Bateman says Niagara Region is its own worst enemy.
In a news release the councillor writes the engagement of Public Health is exactly what's needed, and she's received calls and emails from concerned residents.
She's also asked the Medical Officer of Health to show her what is outside the region's authority, but he did not follow up on the request.
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