Lance

QUEENSLAND’S Natural Resources Minister Stephen Robertson has laid the blame for the fluoride overdose in Brisbane’s water supplies squarely on the shoulders of SEQ Water. The State Government admitted in late May that it had initially released incorrect information concerning the incident. The Government’s correct information revealed that the contamination happened in April, affecting up to 400 homes in the northern suburb of Joyner, as well as 200 children at a school camp. Queensland Premier Anna Bligh ordered an independent investigation into the incident, to be lead by International Water Centre chief Mark Pascoe. The report found the overdose was caused by a combination of equipment failures to which the operators did not respond appropriately. It recommends more training for staff. Robertson says he has made in clear to SEQ Water that the Government will not tolerate another such blunder. Should another incident occur, he says he will not hesitate in removing the board. The North Pine fluoride facility will be closed until at least September while repairs are completed.