The Tribune

By RASHAD ROLLE

Tribune Staff Reporter

rrolle@tribunemedia.net

AN electric nose analysis in the Pinder’s Point area of Grand Bahama earlier this year revealed the presence of chemical odours that were high compared to European standards, Cabinet Press Secretary Anthony “Ace” Newbold said yesterday.

Residents of Pinder’s Point/Lewis Yard have long been concerned about their health given the activities at industrial plants nearby.

The Pan-American Health Organisation (PAHO) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) conducted a health risk assessment of the area and surrounding areas close to Grand Bahama’s industrial park and their study was completed in November 2015, Mr Newbold said.

“Two of the five conclusions called for an emissions monitoring system and a safety assessment. The former government contracted Common Invent BV to install and commission the e-noses monitoring system and the Antea Group was contracted to carry out a safety assessment. A progress report dated April 5, 2017 concluded that the e-noses recording levels in Pinder’s Point were high and compared to European standards the odour was also high.

“Cabinet agreed that the Ministry of Environment and in conjunction with the Grand Bahama Port Authority, the Office of the Prime Minister in Grand Bahama and the Office of the Attorney General will assemble a project team to prepare an action plan based on the findings of the report. It is also agreed to the implementation, where practicable of the most immediate actions recommended in the draft report of April 21, 2017.”

Mr Newbold said the report will be released to the public after the Grand Bahama Authority has reviewed it.

Mr Newbold also said the Ministry of the Environment cleaned up “some diesel spilled on Adelaide Road” last week.

He said the ministry will seek reimbursement for that spill.

“The Cabinet was also informed of traces of oil outside the boom area at Clifton Pier, which is the area designed to catch any oil spillage. This led to a discussion about the remediation needs of the Bahamas Power and Light plant at Clifton Pier.”

He said Environment and Housing Minister Romauld Ferreira will lead further discussions on this matter as the government seeks to solve the problem.