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Percy Barrett, Opposition Environment Critic and MHA for the District of
Bellevue, is once again asking government for an update regarding the plan
to deal with the huge number of used tires being stockpiled in this
province. "The stockpiling of tires in this province remains a growing
problem," said Mr. Barrett. "Each time I have asked the minister for an
update, he deflects the issue saying the answer is just around the corner.
Two and a half years have passed and the time has come for Minister Osborne
to identify what government has planned for the tire recycling program in
the province. The huge stockpiles of tires in communities around the
province must be dealt with immediately.
"I have been raising this issue for months and the time has come for the
minister to provide some real solutions. The plan to burn tires at Corner
Brook Pulp and Paper was dismissed last fall because of public criticism and
no further options have been discussed by government. The minister said he
had a number of other options he was reviewing, but no further indication
has been given.
"Last fall the minister indicated that other proposals had been submitted
and these were being explored. I would like an update as to whether these
other proposals are still being considered, if these proponents are still
interested, and what these plans entail. Full disclosure and consultation
should take place, and it is time for the minister to be up front with the
people of the province."
There are an estimated 2.5 million used tires stockpiled in this province
with an additional 500,000 tires being disposed of each year. People buying
tires pay a $3 per tire recycling fee with the expectation that the
government will use this money to dispose of tires in a safe manner.
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