Toxic N.L. mine hasn't harmed residents: tests

Relief has replaced anxiety for people in central Newfoundland who were worried about lead contamination from old mines near their community.

Last fall, after the provincial government found high levels of toxins such as lead around Buchans, N.L., residents were urged to get their blood tested. Buchans is located about 530 kilometres west of St. John's.

Health officials revealed the results of those tests at a public meeting Wednesday night. They told residents there is no need to be alarmed.

About 60 per cent of the more than 700 residents had blood tests. Only 18 people had higher-than-average levels of lead in their blood andnone required medical attention

"We're not the toxic dump the rest of Canada was told we were.I believe we're ready to turn the page on the health issue," said Buchans Mayor Derm Corbett.

The province has announced a $9-million plan to remediate and cover tailings from the old mines that closed in the 1980s.

That work is supposed to start this spring and continue all summer.

Some residents are worried contaminated dust will be kicked up by the remediation.

"I mean around here with the dirt and the dust it hasn't been rectified and we have to make Buchans safe for our children. It's simple," said Buchans resident Jeremy Chippit.

There are an estimated 10,000 abandoned mines in Canada.

More governments are starting to demand that mining companies promise to pay for future clean-ups before they are allowed to dig. The policy is seen as away to ensuretaxpayers arentstuck with the bill when the mines close.