Citizens of La Baie district in Saguenay who are concerned about the presence of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in their drinking water should be reassured by a study by the National Institute of Public Health of Quebec (INSPQ).
“It seems highly unlikely that the concentrations observed in La Baie will have a negative impact on people’s health,” said Mathieu Valcke, a toxicologist at INSPQ.
However, some uncertainties remain that require caution.
The study does not make it possible to measure the actual burden on the population. Four types of PFAS were observed in the 18 samples analyzed over the summer. If we can say that they are not among the most toxic, the scientific literature on them is not yet very developed. Furthermore, there are insufficient data to measure their carcinogenic potential.
PFAS were detected in groundwater at the Bagotville military base site. Approximately 8,000 residents of La Baie are supplied with water in this sector. Concentrations of 205 nanograms per liter of water were measured, well above the Canadian standard of 30 nanograms.
The Ministry of the Environment alerted Saguenay municipal employees in December 2022.
During his presentation to the media this Monday afternoon, Mathieu Valcke indicated that he would drink water from La Baie “without any problems”.
The municipality will soon undertake water treatment work that will cost $11.4 million.
“It is certain that we will continue to monitor the situation,” said the regional director of public health, Dr. Donald Aubin. We will be able to see whether the devices can reduce the concentrations.”
Health authorities are holding four information sessions on the subject in La Baie until Tuesday evening.
The room can accommodate 25 people per session.