Thank you, Madam Speaker. Last September, the former Minister of Renewable Resources announced to this Legislative Assembly the successful conclusion of negotiations with Alberta, gaining access for northerners to the special waste management centre at Swan Hills. This agreement has provided a unique opportunity for this government and northern industry to dispose of hazardous wastes at this world-class facility.
I am pleased to inform Members that the departments of Public Works and Services and Renewable Resources have recently negotiated a contract to dispose of government polychlorinated biphenyl, or PCB, wastes at the Swan Hills facility. These wastes result from the operation and maintenance of government property and in other cases, have been found abandoned near our communities with no identifiable owner. In addition to our own government, federal agencies and northern private industry are participating in this program.
Approximately 76 tonnes of PCBs will be transported to Swan Hills for disposal over the next couple of weeks.
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Department officials are now notifying all territorial communities located along the transport route of the anticipated transport dates. This represents a significant step in managing PCBs in the Northwest Territories. The Department of Renewable Resources wishes to publicly acknowledge Public Works and Services, private industry and federal agencies for their participation in this program. We would also like to acknowledge the spirit of cooperation which has developed between this government and the Government of Alberta on hazardous waste issues. I look forward to its continuance for the benefit of all our residents. Thank you.
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