Government wants waste-water operation details

The provincial government is requesting more details about a waste-water disposal operation proposed for the St. John's harbour.

Encanex Corp. wants to accept and treat fluids from the offshore industry — including petroleum hydrocarbons, related metals and oil - at a facility below the Battery neighbourhood.

Once the waste-water is treated, it would then be flushed into the city's storm sewer system.

Tom Hedderson, minister of Environment and Conservation, was expected to make an announcement by Dec. 16, but on Friday the department said an environmental report must first be completed.

The report would include more detailed information, as well as enable public meetings about the proposal.

Alton Payne, president of Encanex, said it is a green project that's good for the environment and the downtown area.

At least 225 people who live in the Battery neighbourhood signed a petition this week opposing the operation.