Re: “Two men, one osprey nest,” News, April 15, 2011
As a resident of Belmont Park, I have concern regarding the increased level of radiation recently added to the Telus communications tower in this neighbourhood.
This is a community consisting largely of young military families, including pregnant women and many young children. As well, there is a large school of more than 850 children from preschool through elementary and middle school grades.
Increasingly I read that research by credible scientists around the world shows that such radiation can be harmful to young developing brains. in particular, and to health in general. This concerns me as this tower is situated in the midst of this young community.
Apparently Health Canada’s standard regarding such radiation is among the lowest in the world, and Industry Canada follows the guidelines of Health Canada in this regard. While other countries are raising their standards for control of radiation, why is Canada allowing such a risk with the health and wellbeing of our most vulnerable citizens?
The answer, I fear, is that economic profit trumps the health of our people. Information regarding the effects of such radiation can be obtained from Colwood city hall, and the CAUSE committee (citizens against unsafe emissions).
People want telecommunications and should have them, but I would suggest that this tower is situated on quite the wrong site and should be placed away from homes and schools.
As for our resident ospreys, they had built themselves a very secure home atop this tower and reinforced it each year.
It has withstood many a strong storm over the years, including the terrific gale a few years ago that blew so many tiles off my roof and brought down so many trees.
I am a little puzzled that the nest, which appeared intact, came down on a day when there was very little wind at my house opposite.
Helen Martin
Colwood