m the symptoms.(In-depth: Inside Walkerton)The disaster could have been prevented, according to the local medical officer ofhealth. (Toronto Star 22 Dec.) Apparently the Walkerton Utilities Commission knewabout the problem with the water several days before they told the public about it. (In-depth:Inside Walkerton)It didnt take long for this disaster to become political. On 29 May, 2000 OntarioEnvironment Minister Dan Newman called a news conference to say that changes will bemade to ensure that the provinces water supply is safe. Mr. Newman, at the Ontariolegislature, said, If there is something positive that can ever come out of an event like this,it is that changes be made to ensure that it doesnt ever happen again. (In-depth: InsideWalkerton) Also, Agriculture Minister Ernie Hardeman announced that the province wouldtoughen legislation on factory farms. (Globe and Mail, 24 Jan.)Recent testimony at the judicial inquiry into the Walkerton deaths shows that it wasthe towns public utility that my have been most negligent. (Toronto Star 29 Jan.)Globe and Mail Report: Safe WaterSince this tragedy, the Ontario government is seeking to protect groundwater andreduce conflict over factory farms. And is set to introduce legislation placing a strictercontrol over intensive livestock operations and the disposal of dead farm animals. Last year,after the Walkerton disaster, Agriculture Minister Ernie Hardeman announced that theprovince would toughen legislation on factory farms. (Globe and Mail, 24 Jan.)The confidential draft summary of the proposed legislation says that tougherregulations are to help protect Ontarios water quality and public safety by setting the stagefor clear, provincewide standards regarding the management of nutrients (including manure)and deadstock on farms, and that the government wants to stop public concerns aboutintensive livestock operations. (Globe and Mail, 24 Jan.) The proposal is a recognition that rules t...
