Canadian MP remains mum on asbestos issue

SARNIA -- The refusal by Sarnia-Lambton's MP to clarify her position on Canada's controversial asbestos exports is appalling, a prominent Liberal says.

"I'm appalled by (Pat Davidson) not taking a stand, especially considering the many families in this riding who have been devastated by asbestos and its effects," said Tim Fugard, who is seeking the federal Liberal party nomination in Sarnia-Lambton.

Fugard was responding to Davidson's repeated dodging of questions from media asking her to clarify her stance on asbestos exports.

"I don't have anything else to say on it," she said yesterday.

Asbestos, a known carcinogen, is no longer used in Canada but the federal government allows it to be sold in developing countries.

According to Statistics Canada, more than $100 million worth of asbestos was exported last year, much of it to India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Brazil.

The Conservatives currently hold the Quebec seat that is home to the last asbestos mine in Canada, and critics say Ottawa is afraid to reverse a policy that might anger Quebec voters.

"It shouldn't be a dollar issue," said Fugard. "(Davidson) should be standing up for Sarnia-Lambton and for all Canadians."


By TARA HAGAN, SUN MEDIA
The London Free Press
‎Sep 3, 2009