Asbestos

All of the hoopla surrounding Lisa Raitt seems to have overshadowed some very serious news items. One of these is the latest story on asbestos.

It may come as a surprise to many of you to know that Canada is still mining and exporting asbestos to developing countries like India and China. In fact, Canada is the world's second largest exporter of asbestos. How is this possible? Do we not recognize that their lives are sacred too, regardless of where they live?

The Conservatives argue that the type of asbestos being mined/exported (chrysotile) is not as hazardous as the type (amphibole) that was used here in Canada in the 60's and 70's. The Canadian Cancer Society disagrees.

The World Health Organization (WHO) says that ALL types of asbestos are carcinogenic. Many developed countries have banned asbestos - but not Canada.

Is it possible that we continue to mine/export a known carcinogen, against the advice of the WHO, simply because it is profitable?

When will Canadian governments realize that 'profit' does not always equate with 'good'. In fact, one could argue that these 'profits' are most likely being spent on medical treatment for those unfortunate Canadian men and women who are battling mesothelioma or asbestosis because they work with asbestos. It's what they call a vicious circle...

http://twitter.com/amycollard