The Ontario government is investing an additional $4 million to protect communities, including Chatham-Kent, from the risks of old and inactive oil and gas wells.
Chatham-Kent is one of nine municipalities across southwestern Ontario that will receive provincial funding to enhance emergency preparedness and response, as part of the government’s $23.6 million Legacy Oil and Gas Wells Action Plan.
“Today’s announcement is yet another step our government is taking to help municipalities keep their communities safe from the risks of old and inactive oil and gas wells,” said Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources, in a media release. “This investment is helping us protect Ontario’s communities today, while building a strong, safe and more resilient future.”
Since 2023, Ontario has provided close to $10 million to help municipalities purchase specialized equipment, deliver critical training programs, collaborate across municipal borders and enhance emergency response capacity to keep communities safe from oil and gas related emergencies, according to a provincial government press release. Funds have been used to purchase emergency response equipment, provide health and safety training to municipal staff and improve public education and awareness.
“This important investment reflects Ontario’s commitment to protect families and communities across Ontario,” said Jill Dunlop, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response. “Preventing oil and gas related emergencies is critical to ensuring public safety and is a key component of our government’s plan to enhance Ontario’s ability to be safe, practiced and prepared.”
