I have particular concerns about a toxic spill of dilbit in or near the Rideau River. Since synthetic crude oil is less flammable than methane, we cannot expect to rely on smoke or flame to alert area residents to a spill. Recent spills in the USA illustrate that such a spill is a very real possibility with lengthy and costly clean ups that involve serious health-related & financial impacts. I would also like to understand how much of any clean up costs would fall on area tax payers. Would the City, NCC, Parks Canada, or other agencies be expected to implement new equipment or procedures to protect the river and canal? How will we secure the "triple crown" status of the Rideau River and Rideau Canal, which is a National Historic Site of Canada, Canadian Heritage River, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site? In addition, there is, of course, the larger issue of climate change. Given the recent publication of the latest IPCC assessment, the need for urgent action to combat climate change caused by burning fossil fuels demands a real shift in priorities by politicians representing all levels of government. In response to the persistent climate crisis, it is quite possible that tar sands crude in particular may be subject to bans or restrictions in many export markets in the next few years. If so, risking the health of the Rideau and the viability of our local tourism & recreation industries seems like a very dubious proposition.
Posted on: Fri, 04 Oct 2013 07:00:46 +0000
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