News Release

Councillor Calls for Investigation into Run-Off at Lake Mic Mac

(Wednesday, May 4/2005)-- Councillor Andrew Younger ( District 6-East Dartmouth/ The Lakes) is calling on the Nova Scotia Department of the Environment to launch a full investigation into run-off believed to be from a neighbouring commercial site into Lake Mic Mac.

During two recent storms, water run-off allegedly from lands owned by Dartmouth Crossings Ltd., and leased by the LaFarge Asphalt plant, has resulted in large red slicks across the lake.

"During the April 23 rain event, the slicks reached hundreds of metres out into the lake," says Younger. "This is disturbing to both me and to residents."

After the first run-off, Councillor Younger was advised the issue was a one-time event. However, recent rainfall has shown this type of situation could occur each time it rains and that no additional protection for the lake was put in place.

"A full investigation into this matter is required immediately, and charges should be laid against any person or company found to be violating environment standards," says Younger. "We have no idea what may be dissolved in this run-off in addition to mud and sand. The impact to the ecology and long-term health of the lake could be very damaging."

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Councillor Andrew Younger
Cell: 476-1727