Kootenay-Columbia MP Wayne Stetski is calling on the federal government to help replace ammonia refrigeration systems in public rinks.
It comes in the wake of this month’s deaths of three men in an ammonia leak at the Fernie arena.
Stetski says 65 per cent of the estimated 3,700 ice arenas and curling rinks in Canada use ammonia as their refrigerant.
He said since 2007, there have been over 50 ammonia leaks in Canada, many resulting in injuries and deaths. Carbon dioxide systems offer a safer and more efficient alternative, Stetski said.
“Our most important role as Members of Parliament is to keep our citizens safe,” he told the House of Commons. “I call on the federal government to work with the provinces to help municipalities phase out of ammonia based systems to ensure there are no more tragedies like the one suffered by the people of Fernie.”
Video of his statement can be seen below.
