PROTECTING OUR ENVIRONMENT

When it comes to the proposed Reid Road Quarry, our community has raised legitimate concerns regarding its potentially negative impacts to the surrounding environment and water table. There are also other concerns about dust and fly rock because of blasting under the water table and increased truck traffic.

That is why, at the request of our community, I formally requested an Environmental Assessment (EA) of the proposed quarry site by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks.

Today, I am proud to announce that an Environmental Assessment has been officially launched.

Under the EA, the site will be required to undergo additional consultation and further assessment into the quarry’s possible impacts which will include a water quality monitoring program, an assessment of the effects to groundwater from blasting below the water table, dust studies, and a social impact assessment.

Once the assessment is completed, the government will undertake a review of the Environmental Assessments’ findings with opportunities for you to submit your comments along the way.

Our government takes environmental protection seriously. We will continue listening to your concerns about the need for groundwater security and additional consultation to ensure our community’s health and general well-being are not jeopardized.

I want to thank each and everyone of you for your advocacy and your support; we would not have made it this far without you. There were 1,150 comments received through the Environmental Registry of Ontario, and each one showed the need for greater review and oversight over the project.

I will continue to ensure our community has a strong voice at Queen’s Park by making sure your voice is heard, and your concerns are reviewed throughout the Environmental Assessment process.