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| Return to Steven Howitt Press & Media Committee to Elect STEVEN HOWITT Press Release For further information contact: Pam Howitt, August 10, 2004 HOWITT CONCERNED ABOUT CITIZENS’ SAFETY WITH PROPOSED LNG FACILITIES With Steven Howitt on the road on the campaign trail, speaking in particular with residents of Swansea and neighboring communities, Howitt is learning of citizens’ concerns for the proposed new Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) facilities to be located in Fall River. Howitt responds to their concerns by stating his position on the proposed facilities. “I cannot support the LNG facility as a matter of the public's safety. A report released by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, (FERC) which is the licensing group for all LNG facilities didn’t adequately assess the probability of an accident involving LNG.” Howitt continued, “What the report does is describe the severe and hazardous fires that could result from a gash in a vessel transporting LNG. It describes on-water spills from shipping boats which would result in hazardous contamination, as the spread could not be contained by a dike or other containment devices. On the water, in the shipping areas, a danger zone for fire radiation could extend for a mile or more with the gas vapor potentially spreading for several miles or more. The report described how someone could be standing a half mile away and be subjected to second degree burns with only 40 seconds of exposure.” “So, when asked by my constituents, if I think this is an acceptable risk, my answer is clear. No, I do not think this is an acceptable risk. Particularly when alternate locations could be used that are offshore, or in remote locations that significantly reduce the exposure and threat to citizens of our communities.” “The FERC report cites the need for an exclusion zone,” Howitt added. “But how big would that zone have to be, and who could realistically define those boundaries? How could someone even anticipate the harm resulting from an accident of this nature? In this post 9/11 time in our world, with the threats of terrorism looming again in major cities and waterways, I don’t believe that there is any level of risk acceptable to people when an alternative exists that would provide them not only with a comfort level, but moreover, with safety and security for their families. The safety of our communities is one of my primary concerns, and as State Representative, and I will make that commitment to these families, and consider it one of my highest priorities in my work on Beacon Hill.” Concluding, Howitt adds, “I agree with those who are knowledgeable and concerned about public safety. I am appreciative of the opportunities my neighbors are giving me to take the time to meet and speak with me in person, and I am listening carefully to what they are saying. Not only is their safety of concern but they feel the perceived danger will lower the value of their residences should they wish to sell or move in the future. Since they have occupied their homes long before the LNG project surfaced, and are long time taxpayers, I feel their concerns should be properly considered and addressed. I intend to work hard to be responsive to their needs, and bring their voices to Beacon Hill where action can and must be taken.” ### Further information available at www.StevenHowitt.com To contact Steven Howitt: VoteStevenHowitt@comcast.net Committee to Elect Steven Howitt PO box 88 Seekonk MA 02771 |
