Entry Island: storage of dredged material makes life difficult for wharf users

The temporary storage of contaminated sediments from the dredging of Entry Island harbour is causing headaches for wharf users.

Since mid-April, close to 1200 m3 of sand containing nickel and chromium have been stored on the former dump site and part of the adjoining parking lot, a decision made by Fisheries and Oceans Canada in consultation with the local harbour association.

Island resident and fisherman Olivier Renaud says that with the imminent opening of the lobster fishery, travel around the wharf will be a real headache.

While he emphasizes that he understands that the department must respond to imperatives regarding the management of contaminated sediments, he deplores the delays in carrying out the dredging operations as well as the communication with the community, which he describes as a « logistical flop ».

Olivier Renaud adds that in addition to the location, the appearance of the mounds covered with canvas is far from being an attraction at the dawn of the tourist season.

He hopes the situation will be resolved before the May 16 technical shutdown of the Ivan-Quinn ferry, otherwise it will be nearly impossible to transport the sediment off Entry Island until mid-June, he says.