For Immediate Release
October 31, 2006

Scott requests consultations on water and sewer sustainability from environment minister

(Toronto, ON) – Yesterday Laurie Scott, PC Environment Critic questioned the Minister of the Environment why the McGuinty Liberals refuse to answer her questions and continue to put off addressing the aging water and sewage infrastructure in Ontario.

“This government and this Minister refuse to be straight with Ontario’s home and businesses owners in dealing with the immediate need for consultations and regulations in dealing with the aging sewage and water infrastructure in Ontario,” said Scott. “While the McGuinty government drags their heals, we are seeing more broken watermains and sink holes.”

“State-of-the-art water treatment plants in places like Collingwood are being forced to increase chlorination because of rotting and deteriorating pipes contaminating already purified water,” added Scott.

The Watertight Report, which was undertaken by the McGuinty Liberals over 15 months ago, has never been responded to by the government. Further to that in 2002, Bill 175 was passed which laid the groundwork for addressing the issues of aging water pipes.

“The Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association is frustrated because this government has not passed the necessary regulations to address the crumbling state of the pipes that form a vital element of our water and wastewater infrastructure”, said Frank Zechner, Executive Director. “The un-proclaimed legislation has been in place since 2002, the recommendations to proceed with regulations are in report after report including the government's own 'Watertight Report. Yet to date, the OSWCA has not received confirmation that regulations are being drafted and after four years, there still have been no consultations on draft regulations.”

“Damage and disruptions similar to the recent problem in Scarborough where a burst watermain flooded a telephone control room depriving thousands of customers of phone and internet service, will continue if the pipes remain in service long after their expected maximum lifespan,” added Zechner. “It will take many years to close the infrastructure deficit, but we need the regulations now in order to start to scope, prioritize and fund the repair and replacement of outdated pipes.”
“Too many businesses and residents are loosing money and are being seriously affected as a result of this governments inaction,” said Scott. “I asked the Minister of the Environment this same question five months ago. This Minister and this government continue to break their promises and refuse to address the real needs of hardworking Ontarians.”

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For Further Information Contact:
Laurie Scott, MPP
416-325-2008

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