Media Release

Updated Information for Patea Residents

15 February 2008

This is to provide you with information about what is being done in Patea to help deal with any effects of the Waitangi Day fire at the Freezing Works.

MONDAY’S MEETING: Mayor Ross Dunlop and representatives of the agencies involved in dealing with the situation in Patea during and following the fire thank those who were able to attend the public meeting held on Monday night. It was good to see the spirit of cooperation that emerged and we are working hard to maintain good communication with all involved as we consider the best ways to move forward.

ASBESTOS TESTS CLEAR: We can confirm that no asbestos was detected in laboratory tests on dust and air samples taken at different locations near the site and through the town by Taranaki District Health Board’s Health Protection Unit. Further test samples taken at the Wai O Turi Marae and from Red Cross overalls were also clear of asbestos. Independent testing by IAG Insurance from a Dart Street home again shows no asbestos being detected. For sanitary reasons, staff have investigated concerns regarding possible soot inside some homes that were close to the site of the fire – this was not related to asbestos. These homes have been examined by Taranaki DHB Public Health team and STDC staff and it was found there was no residue in the homes resulting from the fire; they are therefore safe to live in.

SITE SECURITY: The site of the fire is being monitored on an ongoing basis. Large sprinklers have been spraying water from the river to ensure there is no flare up from the charred remains of the works buildings. A fence is being erected around the site, but please keep well away and ensure children do not attempt to go there.

ENSURING SITE SAFETY IN THE SHORT TERM: Some time in the next week the Taranaki Regional Council expects to be able to make the site safe by spraying it with a plastic-type binding material. This will contain any dust while we work out the best way to permanently clear the debris. This plan has been discussed by Council, Health Board, Fire Service and Iwi representatives who have been assured about the environmental safety of the acrylic resin spray. It will provide a protective film to prevent dust rising and has a lifespan of 12-17 months.

EXPERT ADVICE: In addition to the expertise available through Government agencies and the Regional Council, we are fortunate to be able to receive independent advice on the best ways to deal with the site from an Australian expert on contaminated sites (Ian Field) who is currently working on the New Plymouth Power Station demolition. Ian is preparing a report for the Regional Council but said that everything was being done right at this stage.

CLEANUP ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE LONG TERM: Prior to the fire, the District Council and Regional Council had received an undertaking from the Government that it would contribute $64,000 towards the $100,000 cost of investigating what toxic materials might be at the Freezing Works site. That investigation is still a necessary first step before we can be sure how to tackle the removal of the freezing works buildings. It will start this month with results expected at the end of May and we will keep you updated on the progress of that study.

WHO IS GOING TO PAY: The Councils and Iwi are continuing to lobby Central Government for funding and other support. Local MPs are helping to ensure the need for prompt action is a high priority in Wellington. Council and Iwi representatives are talking with officials from the Ministry for the Environment, which is responsible for allocating funds for cleaning up contaminated sites.

PATEA HOSPITAL: The Council will undertake an investigation of the old hospital in conjunction with the investigation into the freezing works in order to identify what contaminants may be present at the Hospital site. We want to get this underway this month.

INFORMATION CENTRE: A new Information Centre will be set up at Patea Primary School later next week. Updates on what is happening, including what is being done to make the site safe, will be available there and also at the Patea LibraryPlus. If you were in Patea during or immediately after the fire you should add your name and details to the national asbestos register that will enable health authorities to keep you informed of any future developments. These forms are available at the Library now and the Patea Primary School information centre when it is opened.

CLEAN UP OF HOMES: Some homes in the immediate vicinity of the works site may have been affected by smoke residue from the fire. This may require cleaning. If you have insurance you should approach your insurance company in the first instance. Residents who are Work and Income clients or receive National Super may be eligible for some assistance. Contact your local Work and Income office for further information. For inquiries about additional special needs assistance contact Work and Income, free phone 0800 559 009