It has been just over a month since the Mount Polley Mine incident. It impacted hundreds of families, residents in Likely and those who worked at the mine site. From the day the incident occurred, our government has not stopped monitoring and investigating what occurred at the site.
Since the incident, I have met with many residents, First Nations and concerned citizens impacted by the tailings breach. The engagement process will continue and by working together as a community we can determine exactly what happened and the best solutions to ensure this type of accident never happens again.
Testing by Interior Health and the Ministry of Environment will continue, and updates will be continuously be updated online. Sampling results are being taken from several different locations at different depths in Quesnel Lake to determine the safety and quality of water for aquatic life and human consumption.
Our government with the co-operation of First Nations communities has begun the task of commencing the investigation of the incident and review of all 2014 Dam Safety Inspections. British Columbia is a leader in mining and exploration, and we are taking these steps to maintain and reinforce this reputation for many years to come.
For workers impacted by the Mount Polley incident, the Province is currently working with the company, the United Steelworkers, the CRD and the Chamber of Commerce in Likely to ensure workers have all of the necessary information they need to connect with worker support services.
For those who require support and connections with skills training and employment opportunities can contact the Williams Lake WorkBC Employment Services Centre at 250 398-5133.
The Cariboo North constituency office is also available to connect workers and residents with government resources and programs by calling us at 1-866-991-0296.
Coralee Oakes is the MLA for Cariboo North and is the Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development.