NR - 10.064 - June 23, 2010
CAPE BRETON , N.S. – New Dawn Enterprises Limited and the Department of National Defence (DND) are pleased to announce an amicable settlement of New Dawn Enterprises' claim against the Crown regarding damages related to environmental contamination at the former Canadian Forces Station (CFS) Sydney Main Radar Site, also known as Pine Tree Park.
"We were able to reach this agreement through cooperation and collaboration on both sides," said the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence. "The Department of National Defence will continue to work alongside New Dawn Enterprises and remains committed to protecting the environment through the remediation project at the former CFS Sydney Main Radar Site."
The CFS Sydney Main Radar Site was decommissioned in 1992 and sold to the County of Cape Breton, who in turn sold it to New Dawn Enterprises, a private, volunteer-directed, community business organization dedicated to community building in Cape Breton, N.S..
In 2004, New Dawn Enterprises discovered a leaking above-ground fuel storage tank at the site. Subsequent investigations by DND identified an additional 35 underground storage tanks (UST). New Dawn Enterprises filed a claim against the Crown for losses and damages incurred due to the contamination.
"We are grateful that New Dawn and the Department of National Defence have come to an agreement that is fair and just," said Mr. Rankin MacSween, President of New Dawn Enterprises Ltd.. "This community confronts many challenges and is blessed with infinite opportunity. As a result of this agreement, New Dawn is positioned to return to its practice of helping to address community challenges and nurture community opportunities."
A good environmental steward, the DND is actively addressing environmental contamination at the site through the Former CFS Sydney Underground Storage Tank Remediation Project. The project is anticipated to be completed by 2013. Project work includes the demolition of 40 residential units, excavation and disposal of 58,560 tonnes of contaminated soil, backfilling, and site restoration.
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