NR-M-98-02E

ALBION CROSS COURT CASE - PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

February 5 , 1998

CHARLOTTETOWN -- The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), Maritimes Region today confirmed that the Court has granted a stay of proceedings in the Albion Cross, Prince Edward Island case against the Department of Transportation and Public Works.

The agreement reached between DFO and the PEI Department of Transportation and Public Works expresses a desire by both parties to work together in implementing new and improved environmental control measures into highway construction and maintenance practices. The measures are aimed at complimenting the regulatory compliance efforts of both governments, particularly those related to the protection of fish habitats.

The commitments made by the PEI Department of Transportation and Public Works range from the staffing of an Environmental Engineering Specialist who will significantly increase the overall technical capability of the Department in this area. In addition to the enhanced technical support, a major undertaking will be implemented in the area of training for full time and seasonal staff. These measures, coupled with the development of a protocol, will clearly define the process and responsibilities if environmental concerns become an issue on the job site. These measures will provide the public some security that their interests can be addressed in a positive and cost effective way. The Department of Transportation and Public Works will provide all the necessary resources this summer for habitat restoration and enhancement work in the area of Grove Pine, below the Albion Cross construction site.

For information:

H.H. (Hank) Scarth
Area Manager, Prince Edward Island
Fisheries and Oceans
Maritimes Region
Charlottetown, P.E.I.
(902) 566-7810