MCK exploring all options on Asbestos removal

11/14/2019

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) wishes to ensure the Community that it will do everything in its power to keep the costs for the removal of all remaining asbestos-containing material (ACM) in the community to a minimum, despite a recent maximum (preliminary) estimate close to $25 million announced at the Fall Community Meeting.
 
“We don’t expect it to be that high, but I wanted the Community to know the maximum so that there are no surprises,” said Grand Chief Joseph Tokwiro Norton. “Regardless, we’re still looking at several million, and we’re exploring all options possible for the best solution and to keep the costs down,” he added. 
 
“We are still gathering information and analyzing reports to ensure we are mitigating this situation properly,” said Ratsénhaienhs Frankie McComber. “This is an extremely complex matter, and it’s important that we make every decision carefully. We have addressed several of the most pressing issues.”
 
Once the preliminary work is done, Chief & Council will be asked to make the decision on the direction that will be taken.
 
“The key issue is – and shall remain – public safety,” McComber concluded. “We are working diligently with experts in the field, both internally to MCK and external professionals. The community should be assured that work on this matter continues daily and will not stop until we are satisfied that the problem is addressed to our satisfaction.”