Transport Canada has been aware of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as forever chemicals, since the 1980s, according to documents obtained through an access-to-information request. These chemicals, which are part of a large family, have been linked to various health issues such as cancer, hypertension, and diabetes.
For years, Transport Canada, along with the Department of National Defence (DND) and the National Research Council of Canada, conducted firefighter training exercises at airports using aqueous film-forming foams containing PFAS. Although effective in fighting jet fuel fires, the use of these foams led to groundwater contamination with PFAS at multiple sites across the country.
In response to the contamination, lawyer Alex Templeton is leading a proposed class-action lawsuit on behalf of residents near airports in Newfoundland, including Eddie and Susan Sheerr, whose well water exceeded Health Canada’s PFAS guidelines. Documents revealed that Transport Canada was aware of the potential toxicity of effluents from firefighter training exercises as far back as 1984.
The documents also highlighted concerns about outdated standards for containing effluents and addressing environmental impacts. Despite Transport Canada stating that their activities were in line with policies at the time and unaware of PFAS contamination, Templeton pointed out discrepancies with the reports obtained.
In North Bay, similar concerns have emerged, with ongoing efforts to clean up PFAS contamination from firefighting foams that seeped into the groundwater and affected the municipal drinking water source. A proposed class-action lawsuit has been filed over the contamination, raising questions about the communication and actions taken by authorities in addressing the issue.
Residents like Liza Vandermeer are demanding answers and accountability for the lack of follow-up and communication regarding the known risks associated with PFAS contamination dating back to the 1980s. The situation underscores the importance of proactive measures and transparency in handling environmental hazards.
