Minister Calls for Environmental Assessment

Acting Environment Minister Michael Baker announced today that a full environmental assessment will be required if an application goes ahead on a proposed extension of a Waverley gravel pit.

Tidewater Construction Ltd. wants to amend its industrial permit and excavate more gravel each year. Mr. Baker said if Tidewater proceeds with its application, the matter will be referred to the environmental assessment board.

Mr. Baker said the board members will be appointed by cabinet. The board members will report to the environment minister and make recommendations if Tidewater goes ahead with its application.

"We want to be sure the final decision is the right decision and is based on all information available to us," said the minister.

Tidewater applied to the Department of Environment earlier this year to amend its permit. The company wants to increase its annual production limit of 90,000 tonnes per year. Tidewater began crushing operations in December of 1992.

The environmental assessment will involve a public review.