Provincial authorities are scheduled to hold discussions with the St. Mary’s town council on Monday following severe wind damage to an abandoned fish sauce plant. Mayor Steve Ryan is urging the federal government to intervene, emphasizing the need to safeguard vital lobster, crab, and cod fishing grounds.
Overnight on Friday into Saturday, strong winds caused a section of the building to be ripped off, exposing 110 vats of decaying fish sauce to the elements. Since the discovery in 2016 of harmful waste flowing into the ocean and causing fish deaths, Ryan has been seeking federal assistance to demolish the structure.
Situated just 50 feet from the shoreline and with more high winds predicted for Monday, Ryan is worried about potential leakage of the old fish sauce into the ocean. Consequently, a nearby residence will be evacuated on Monday as a precaution, with Deputy Mayor Yvonne Bishop warning of potential roof damage that could pose a threat to the area.
Bishop is also advocating for Coast Guard support, expressing disappointment in the federal government’s lack of involvement in the situation. The town has long endured the foul odor emanating from the plant, described as a persistent stench of decaying fish compost.
In a statement to CBC, Michelle Hunt-Grouchy, Director of Communications for the Department of Environment, Conservation, and Climate Change, confirmed that provincial officials will engage with the town council on Monday to address assessments, safety measures, and resident well-being. Hunt-Grouchy highlighted the province’s commitment to prioritizing the safe disposal of organic waste and mitigating associated risks.
Liberal MHA Sherry Gambin-Walsh stressed the urgency of removing the plant, particularly in light of the recent windstorm. Residents have been advised to remain vigilant and prepared for potential evacuation orders. Efforts to secure interviews with Avalon MP Paul Connors and Federal Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson are underway, with Thompson’s Press Secretary Ira Khedkar indicating that a response is being prepared.