Environment Canada: Atlantic Region News Releases

St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador - November 10, 2003 - Environment Canada has laid six charges under the Government of Canada’s Fisheries Act against Abitibi Consolidated, the operator of a paper mill in Grand Falls Windsor, (Newfoundland and Labrador).

Three of the charges relate to alleged violations under general prohibitions of the Fisheries Act. The other three charges result from alleged breaches of the Pulp and Paper Effluent Regulations under the Fisheries Act. The Regulations outline effluent standards for pulp and paper mills.

Environment Canada laid the charges as the result of routine inspections, followed by the execution of two search warrants. The violations are alleged to have occurred between February 2002 and the end of March 2003.

Representatives for Abitibi Consolidated are scheduled to appear in Provincial Court in Grand Falls Windsor on November 25, 2003.

Environment Canada's Enforcement staff investigates potential pollution offences under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999) and the Fisheries Act. They help ensure that companies, government employees, and the general public comply with legislation and regulations that protect Canada's environment.

For further information contact:

Neil Codner
Investigator
Environment Canada
(709) 772-2065