Sample results from 2022 indicate lower levels of oil contaminants in eggs than previous year

The Department of Lands and Natural Resources would like to advise that 2022 sample results recently received from Environment and Climate Change Canada indicate lower levels of oil contaminants in seabird eggs from Postville and Nain than observed in 2021.

While this is encouraging news, the information has been provided to Health Canada for further analysis. Oil toxicity is complex, depending on the levels of many different compounds, so this analysis is necessary before new information can be provided on potential human health impacts.

Following a diesel spill of 3,000 litres in Kaikopok Bay near Postville in 2020, the Nunatsiavut Government, in collaboration with ECCC, began testing for oil contaminants to determine any long-term, lasting impacts. Results of the analyses showed elevated levels of oil compounds in Postville compared to Nain, and elevated levels in both communities for 2021.

Residents of the Labrador Inuit Land Claims requiring more information, are asked to please contact:

Frédéric Dwyer-Samuel
Avatet Kaujisattaugutinginnik Aulatsijik
Environmental Assessment Manager
Nunatsiavut kavamanga / Nunatsiavut Government
(709) 922-2380 #227

Media Contact:
Nunatsiavut Government Communications
communications@nunatsiavut.com
(709) 896-8582

NT5