THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

The news is still changing somewhat in regards to Chemtura's spill last Monday afternoon. Firstly here's what isn't public yet: Dwight Este (Chemtura) in a private communication has advised a specific Health and Safety Officer that the plume travelled 1.5 km in a south-west direction. The first reports stated 300 metres and later ones 600 metres. Clearly 1500 metres (1.5 km) goes almost to the south end of Elmira. Secondly the following schools will be inspected this Monday for damage namely EDSS, John Mahood and Park Manor. Thirdly the list of possible symptoms has been expanded to skin, eye. respiratory AND gastrointestinal irritation.

Today's Woolwich Observer has extensive coverage of the spill including both an Editorial and an excellent cartoon. Until one has been on the receiving end of an Observer cartoon, one can't really appreciate the full force of their humour. I was on the receiving end a couple of years ago and unlike the recent women public school teachers and their Principal, I didn't whine and carry on like a spolied five year old.

Chemtura are promising that the findings of their ongoing investigation into the incident will be shared with the public and media. Sharing with CPAC in a private meeting is NOT sharing with the public. At a minimum this information should be presented at the upcoming PUBLIC CPAC meeting on Monday October 18/10 in the Council Chambers. Of course the normal timing of this meeting is for the convenience of the politicians, government employees, self employed and retired, namely 9 am. Perhaps an evening meeting as I've been asking for, for years, would be more appropriate.

Lastly what I am looking for at this upcoming alleged full disclosure meeting is a technical alternative to releasing Chemtura's problem chemical reactions into the natural environment, to the detriment of all the residents of Elmira.