Barry Penner, BC's Environment Minister, announced today that Victoria will be required to provide a plan outlining a fixed schedule for sewage treatment no later than June 2007. The announcement should bring to a close the 15 year battle to stop Victoria from dumping millions of litres of raw sewage into the Georgia Strait each day.
Here is the announcement from Minister Penner:
INFORMATION BULLETINFor Immediate Release Ministry of Environment
2006ENV0064-000976
July 21st, 2006PROVINCE REQUIRES CRD TO PROVIDE SEWAGE TREATMENT
VICTORIA – Based on the recent Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) report presented to the Capital Regional District (CRD) and additional analysis by the Ministry of Environment, the CRD has been directed to provide a plan for sewage treatment to the provincial government no later than June 2007, Environment Minister Barry Penner announced today.
Currently, the CRD releases its sewage into the ocean untreated, relying on water dilution and the ocean currents. As recent analysis shows, including the SETAC report, historic and projected population growth in the capital region makes natural dilution unsustainable.
Therefore, in accordance with section 24 (3) (a) of the Environmental Management Act, the ministry is directing the CRD board to submit for approval no later than June 30, 2007, an amendment to the CRD Core Area Liquid Waste Management Plan detailing a fixed schedule for the provision of sewage treatment.
Further, in accordance with section 24 (3) (b), the minister is requiring the CRD to provide an interim progress report on this amendment no later than December 31, 2006. The report should outline options relating to the type, number and location of facilities, preliminary costs of treatment, as well as a proposed implementation schedule.
To ensure value for taxpayers, the CRD is encouraged to consider new technologies and alternative financing and delivery options, including the potential for private sector involvement.-30-
Media Contact Don McDonald
Communications Director
Ministry of Environment
250 387-9973
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