MPP FLYNN calls for moratorium on construction. Gas fired power plants.

OAKVILLE – MPP Kevin Flynn is requesting a moratorium be placed on the construction of natural gas power facilities in order to give the government and the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) time to examine and consider a draft regulation increasing setback distances.

“The TransCanada site on Ford property is so poorly suited for a power plant its selection defies logic,” said MPP Flynn. “I am drafting a setback regulation and calling upon the government and OPA to suspend construction of the TransCanada facility and review the strategy of building power plants near residential communities without proper environmental assessments.”

Oakville residents, community groups and elected officials have expressed dismay over the selection process. This is not the first time concerns have been raised over the procurement process used by the OPA and many believe it will not be the last.

On September 30th, the OPA announced selection of TransCanada to build a 900mw natural gas power facility on property currently owned by Ford of Canada. The nearest homes, schools and businesses are less than half a kilometre away from the proposed site.

“I am asking the government to consider passing a regulation that will require any natural gas generating facility of any size for which construction permits have not yet been issued to be located at much further distances from residential communities” said MPP Flynn.

For more information please contact: Steven Ball Legislative Assistant to Kevin Flynn, MPP Oakville 416-325-7215