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An independent investigation is being launched into the August 2006 sewage spill blamed in part for a disastrous swimming season at Petrie Island, the city announced today.
After an overflow gate malfunction in the city’s sewer collection system, almost a million cubic metres of excess sewage was dumped into the Ottawa River, a glitch linked to the 45 no-swim advisories Petrie experienced that summer. News of the spill only came to light earlier this month, with the almost two-year gap between city staff discovering the issue and making the information public leaving many residents unsettled.
“It is time … that there is an independent review, so not only are we comfortable, but the citizens of Ottawa are comfortable,” said Mayor Larry O’Brien at the announcement.
The city’s choice for lead investigator of the study, as well as potential timelines, are scheduled to be released next week, he continued, adding that financial implications are set to be discussed at the next council meeting.