NORTH BATTLEFORD LAWSUIT SETTLED

The Province and the City of North Battleford have reached an out-of-court settlement with approximately 700 claimants who were seeking compensation as a result of the North Battleford water contamination incident.

The total value of the compensation package is approximately $3.2 million, which includes compensation for pain and suffering, lost income, out-of-pocket expenses and legal fees. Compensation payments to individuals will be based on the extent of damages suffered. The Province and the City of North Battleford will share equally in the settlement.

"This has been a regrettable episode for the people who became ill in North Battleford and it has served as a significant wake up call for the province and for municipalities which deliver drinking water to their residents," Environment Minister Buckley Belanger said. "Throughout this process our government has remained committed to learning and taking action to prevent similar incidents. The province developed and is implementing a safe drinking water strategy to help ensure residents have safe dependable drinking water."

Belanger also acknowledged the assistance of the Honourable G.W. Baynton as arbiter of the settlement conference convened to resolve the claim prior to proceeding to trial. "Judge Baynton provided a valuable service to the claimants, the City of North Battleford and the province," Belanger said. "His assistance was crucial in reviewing and assessing the issues associated with this case and in achieving a settlement acceptable to all."

Another settlement agreement is currently being negotiated with the Merchant Law Group representing approximately 100 claimants.

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For More Information, Contact:

Everett Dorma Environment Regina Phone: (306)787-6127