Today, Sierra Club of Canada Executive Director, Elizabeth May, presented
the signatures of over  3,100 Sydney residents to local Member of
Parliament, Mark Eyking.  The petitions, directed to federal Minister of
Environment David Anderson, call for a full panel review under the federal
Canadian Environmental Assessment Act to review the proposed clean-up plans
for the Coke Ovens Site and toxic Sydney Tar Ponds.

"While the workbook process sponsored by JAG has increased public
awareness, it was not the same as a full and open hearing process allowing
all members of the community, and a panel of experts, to independently
assess the recommendations of the consultants hired by JAG," said Elizabeth May.

The group thanked Mark Eyking for his concern for the health of Sydney
residents and urged the federal government not to delay in getting ahead to
the next phase, full and fair environmental assessment.

(digital photos of the presentation of the petition are available.)

Elizabeth May 613-241-4611