Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. The words “oil spill,” which we’ve heard far too often lately, strike fear into the hearts of residents, and for good reason. An oil spill always provokes concern for our water, our animals, and the safety of the public.
Just this Monday, Enbridge Pipelines confirmed the spill of approximately four barrels of oil near Willowlake River north of Fort Simpson. The leak was reported by Chief Timothy Lennie of Wrigley, who had discovered it. Unfortunately, Chief Lennie’s exposure to the oil has affected his health. He has reported that his eyes are burning and that his throat is sore. In addition to the effects that Chief Lennie is now suffering, we don’t know how many animals will be affected either by direct contact with oil or by drinking any contaminated water. The chief has also reported that he had found one duck soaked in oil. Although four barrels seems minor compared to the 28,000 barrel leak in Alberta last week, it is important that we take any leak very seriously.
Mr. Speaker, Chief Lennie has met with officials from Enbridge Pipelines, but has not heard from our GNWT or the federal government. We have oil spill emergency plans, and I’m sure it involves meeting with leaders and communities to advise what steps we as regulatory bodies are taking to monitor the leak.
Chief Lennie has many concerns and questions, but no one is taking the time to contact him or his community. I think it is disrespectful as the leak is in his backyard and he has band members living in the immediate vicinity. He has health, environmental and safety concerns that are not being addressed by our government. His band has limited resources and capacities to deal with this situation and requires our help, yet there’s no one talking to him. He also wishes to investigate possible compensation issues, but he does not have the resources to even begin this type of discussion.
We simply must, as a regulatory agency, be proactive and be involved in this incident, Mr. Speaker.
I will be asking questions of the appropriate Minister at the appropriate time. Mahsi cho.
Thank you, Mr. Menicoche. The honourable Member for Kam Lake, Mr. Ramsay.
