PEER pushes feds to release Libby mine danger info

Mourning Libby, Montana's dead and sick from toxic mining cover-up by WR Grace Corp., and lack of enforcement by agencies.

WASHINGTON -- A three-year push from Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER.org), along with more cooperation for open government from the Obama administration, has finally forced EPA to release of details about mining pollution, injuries and deaths near Libby, Montana.

The Bush/Cheney administration had refused to release the information.

Although the report has finally been released, there are still serious concerns about EPA.

“Libby represents one of the most serious public health situations EPA has confronted but it appears that this agency is not close to being up to the task,” stated PEER Executive Jeff Ruch. “This report raises more questions than it answers, including why it was hidden from the public.”

I serve as Tucson-based Ecologist and Southwest Director of PEER.

Read more in the Great Falls Tribune, and at PEER.org.