HALIFAX, NS - Cape Breton West MLA Alfie MacLeod says the Premier needs to act to make sure the MV Miner, abandoned off Scaterie Island, is not damaging the health and safety of people and our environment.

In Question Period today, MacLeod asked Premier Dexter to commit to removing the ship as soon as it is practical if it's found to be a health and safety risk.

"The Premier claims he wants to make sure the people who caused this pay for it but that other than big talk, he has done nothing to ensure the health and safety of local residents and the environment," said MacLeod.

The abandoned ship is located less than a kilometre away from a local scallop fishery and is dangerously close to where lobster fishermen set their traps in season.

MacLeod had the opportunity to visit the site of the abandoned MV Miner two weeks ago and there was a visable hole in the side of the ship.

"The Premier needs to do more to be sure that asbestos is not getting into the water, where it could absorbed by sea life, or washed ashore, where it could dry and become airborne," said MacLeod.

MacLeod has met with Natural Resources Minister Charlie Parker to offer suggestions on how best to salvage the ship.

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