Although directors say their previous statements on the issue have been largely ignored, the Regional District of Nanaimo plans to once again make its opposition to B.C. Hydro’s smart meters known.
The move comes in response to a presentation by Coombs-Errington director Julian Fell at Tuesday night’s committee of the whole meeting.
“I’m disturbed buy the fact B.C. Hydro has taken obstinate denial over the fact their meters are emitting microwave radiation in far greater quantities than they’ve admitted too,” Fell said. “The proof is out there that this radiation is dangerous. I’ve started accumulating reports and studies and I’ve got to the point where I don’t even download them anymore.”
Fell said he wants to find some level of government to take a stand on the issue.
“We don’t want to be irradiated involuntarily,” he said. “If someone likes these gizmos, fine, let them do it. We have a government now that takes extraordinary measures to protect us from smoking, but is mandating we be subject to microwave radiation.”
Fell noted that between 2010 and 2012, 59 local governments in B.C. requested either a moratorium on smart meter installation or an opt-out clause. As well, he said, 85,000 customers actively refused meter installation.
“The reaction of B.C. Hydro to these requests has been disdain tending to contempt,” he said and a blanket refusal to consider any alternative.”
Commenting on the presentation, Parksville director Marc Lefebvre noted the Union of B.C. Municipalities in 2011 voted for a moratorium on smart meters, but it was ignored.
Fell’s motion to reiterate the RDN’s position’s on smart meters to BC Hydro passed.
