Cleanup Planned For Abandoned Tires In Assiniboia

The Ministry of Environment and Saskatchewan’s scrap tire recycling program operator, Tire Stewardship of Saskatchewan (TSS), are moving forward with a plan to address the long-standing issue of abandoned scrap tires in Assiniboia.

The Assiniboia Rubber Recycling plant closed in February 2014, leaving behind 6,678 tonnes (14.724 million pounds) of scrap tires and processed materials.  The facility went into receivership in July 2014.

TSS issued a Request for Proposals earlier this year to dispose of scrap tires at the site, as well as determine the cost of cleaning it up.

“Any contaminated site in Saskatchewan becomes a risk to public health and safety if not managed properly,” Environment Minister Dustin Duncan said.  “Our government is committed to securing a better quality of life for all Saskatchewan people.  To help meet that commitment, the Ministry of Environment is taking steps through The Environmental Management and Protection Act, 2010 to address the cleanup of abandoned scrap tires in Assiniboia to ensure public safety.”

The project will be funded by the Government of Saskatchewan and overseen by TSS.  Without financial assistance from the provincial government, TSS would not be able to complete the project and the site would continue to pose health and safety concerns to the Town of Assiniboia.

“TSS is pleased to move this initiative forward, as it was identified as one of our top priorities,” TSS Board of Directors Chairperson Colin Fraser said.  “By working collaboratively with the Ministry of Environment, we will be able to help remediate the Assiniboia site.  This project has been a long time coming, and we are pleased to play an active role in the solution.”

“I am pleased to join my colleague Minister Duncan in this important announcement today that will help protect the community of Assiniboia,” Agriculture Minister and Wood River MLA David Marit said.  “I thank the community members for their support and co-operation as we work with stakeholders to clean up these tires.”

Cleanup of the site is expected to be completed in 2019.  An announcement regarding the successful proponent will be made at a later date.

“The town is very pleased with this announcement, as this issue has been very concerning for council, administration and our greater community,” Assiniboia Mayor Bob Himbeault said.  “We are looking forward to a successful resolution.”