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First Nation says Ontario has known about mercury poisoning for years

GRASSY NARROWS FIRST NATIONS, Ont -- Members of this northern ontario First Nation community have unveiled a provincial report they say proves Ontario has known about ongoing mercury poisoning issues for five years.

GRASSY NARROWS FIRST NATIONS, Ont -- Members of this northern ontario First Nation community have unveiled a provincial report they say proves Ontario has known about ongoing mercury poisoning issues for five years.

The Dryden paper mill dumped 10 tons of mercury in the English River system over a decade during the 1960s.

The province considered the issue closed when it paid Grassy Narrows and neighbouring Wabaseemoong First Nation $10 million in 1985. 

But in 2009, Ontario commissioned a report showing the long-term effects of mercury poisoning continues. The province never made that report public.

Grassy Narrows Chief Roger Fobister Senior says his people are being declined Mercury Disability services, and he's demanding action. 

It's now illegal to fish commercially in the river system, but the government suggests personal fish consumption only be moderated.  Treaty 3 Grand Chief Warren White spoke to both Canada and Ontario in bold terms. 

The Former Chief of Grassy Narrows is seeking justice for the survivors of mercury poisoning. 

Steve Fobister Senior, who is dying from mercury poisoning is set to begin a hunger strike. 

He's demanding the mercury board be restructured to meet the needs of Grassy Narrows and that a facility be built for survivors of mercury poisoning. 

 

(TBT News)





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