Flin Flon Residents May Be At Risk

Flin Flon Residents May Be At Risk

Monday, October 29, 2007 at 15:49

A consulting firm hired by HudBay Minerals to determine if Flin Flon residents are at danger from chemical levels emitted by the local smelter is a member of the Mining Association of Canada.

The association is an interest group that lobbies for the growth and development of the country’s mining industry.

Elliot Sigal, vice-president of Intrinsik Environment Services, denies there is any conflict of interest or that his company is actively involved in the lobby group, even though Intrinsik’s website states they are an “active” member that attends meetings.

Both Sigal and HudBay deny the relationship would affect the outcome of the health assessment, noting many environmental consulting firms are members of the mining association.

Some health officials are calling for all residents of Flin Flon to be tested to see if they have been exposed to high levels of lead, mercury and arsenic.

Recently, a provincial soil survey in Flin Flon found that much of the town’s soil was above the standard guidelines for human health and high levels of mercury, lead and arsenic were recorded at schools and playgrounds.

(courtesy of Broadcast News)