The Town of Cartwright is on the side of residents near Muskrat Falls. Cartwright says the transportation of transformers for Muskrat Falls through the town is not welcome until the methyl mercury fears are allayed, VOCM’s Lacy O’Connell reports.
The town held a public meeting last night. On the town’s Facebook page, it says, “By unanimous vote, we are to deliver the message to Nalcor and the Province that this project is not welcome to come through the port of Cartwright until all vegetation and soil is removed from the reservoir area.”
The post goes on to say that if an attempt is made to use the port without the consent of residents, “there will be on the ground action taken.”Residents are reaching out to neighbouring communities as well as Labrador’s aboriginal groups.
Cartwright says the residents feel there is “no price tag on the safety and security of our wild food chain, or positive mental health that comes along with carrying on our traditions and culture.”
Mayor Dwight Lethbridge says they heard the concerns of residents and others and decided to take action.
He says the town was considering the benefits that may accrue from the development, but they were given a very clear direction on how to proceed.
Protests against the project have ramped up in recent days as the date for initial flooding of the reservoir approaches.
Long time critic of the Muskrat Falls project, Danny Dumaresque told VOCM Open Line with Paddy Daly there is a real awakening in Labrador to what life will be like after the project. Dumaresque said he wants to congratulate Mayor Lethbridge and others for their actions.
Story courtesy of VOCM