Closed Grand Falls-Windsor mill now in provincial custody

The provincial government of Newfoundland and Labrador has assumed custody and management of the former pulp and paper mill and property in Grand Falls-Windsor, as well as Grand Falls House and the former mill manager’s house, upon notice that AbitibiBowater is handing the assets over to the province.

AbitibiBowater had been taking care of the security of these assets and environmental monitoring since the pulp and paper mill ceased operation in March 2009. AbitibiBowater was ordered to provide an environmental remediation plan and the company is appealing this order and others related to the remediation of their former assets in the province.

The company formally notified the provincial government on Feb. 2 that it was vacating the buildings.

“Now that Abitibi has decided to withdraw from the province, it is incumbent upon the Provincial Government to maintain the status quo of the buildings to ensure that public safety and the environment are protected and maintained,” said Kathy Dunderdale, Acting Premier and Minister of Natural Resources.

“Our taking custody and management of these buildings at this time no way reduces, eliminates or mitigates any responsibilities Abitibi may have in respect to remediation or environmental liabilities. While the legal issues around these properties unfold, the Provincial Government will ensure these assets are secure and do not become a risk to public safety or to the environment.”

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Province assumes custody and management of closed mill in Grand Falls-Windsor (The Western Star)