For Immediate Release

Feb. 16, 2016

Statement on lead in drinking water in Prince Rupert schools

VICTORIA— Jennifer Rice, MLA for North Coast, issued the following statement concerning elevated levels of lead in drinking water in Prince Rupert schools.

 “I am deeply concerned about elevated lead levels in the drinking water of four Prince Rupert schools. Children are very vulnerable to lead exposure, and the levels found in school drinking water exceeded Health Canada guidelines.

“It is extremely troubling that we don’t know what level of lead children have been exposed to and for how long. These are questions I will be taking to our provincial government.

“In light of these findings I want to see older schools in other communities in the northwest, on the central coast and on Haida Gwaii tested for lead exposure.

“Parents and community members can be sure I will be fighting for real solutions and answers on this issue.”

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Media contact: Jennifer Jones 250-889-6308