Minister Visits Sydney

Environment Minister Ron Russell has repeated the provincial government's commitment to find a solution to clean up the Sydney tar ponds. Mr. Russell was in Sydney today for a formal tour of the tar ponds and coke ovens sites.

"I wanted to see this for myself," said Mr. Russell. "And as Environment Minister, I want to assure residents in this area that working with the people in this community, and our government partners, we are committed to finding a solution."

Mr. Russell discussed the issue during a luncheon meeting with the executive and committee chairs of the Joint Action Group. He emphasized the department's regulator role in the process. Transportation and Public Works represents government at the Joint Action Group round table.

"This is a complex issue that unfortunately can't be solved overnight," said Mr. Russell. "I just want people to understand that we aren't sitting on our hands here -- it is a very serious priority."

This was the message Mr. Russell conveyed to Sydney resident Don Deleski during a brief meeting this afternoon.

"Concerned citizens, such as Mr. Deleski, are important and valuable in this process," said Mr. Russell. "Today's meeting was meant to reassure Mr. Deleski his voice has been heard, and we are taking his concerns to heart."

During today's visit, Mr. Russell also met Sydney staff of the departments of Environment and Labour. The minister visited the offices of the Department of Labour in the Provincial Building on Prince Street and Civic Centre on the Esplanade in Sydney. He also visited the offices of the Department of the Environment on Charlotte Street.

"I think it's important to meet the people around the province that make government work," said Mr. Russell. "These are the people on the front lines and they are the first point of contact on many of our programs. I wanted to put faces to names and show my support for their efforts."

As part of this visit, Mr. Russell also had the opportunity to tour the government's new cabinet office, also in the Sydney Provincial Building. It will officially open next week.

This was Mr. Russell's first trip to Sydney since being appointed to the Environment and Labour portfolios.