Little Buffalo, AB/ The Government of the Lubicon Lake Nation was advised by Pennwest Exploration (TSX: PWT, NYSE: PWE) at 5:27pm on June 22, 2013 of an oil pipeline leak within Lubicon lands. The spill is located South of Lubicon Lake which is the proposed location of future Lubicon reserve lands. Information initially provided to the Government of the Lubicon Lake Nation by Pennwest representatives indicated that the spill was approximately 5000 litres of oil. Initial reports from the company indicate surface waters and muskeg lands over an area of 2.5 square kilometres have been affected by the spill. Chief Bernard Ominayak commented this morning: “The Government of the Lubicon Lake Nation will continue to actively monitor this situation, the safety and security of Lubicon citizens and their environment is the primary concern of the Council.” Lubicon officials will also inspect the site and resulting damage today. The ERCB has not returned calls to Lubicon officials to date.
An update briefing with Pennwest representatives in Calgary was held at 9:30am by telephone. The company reiterated that the spill is larger than the initial estimates and the release volume and total footprint is no longer known. Containment of the spill is currently under way however it is not yet complete. The massive flooding in Calgary also continues to have a negative effect on the management of this spill, especially with regard to communications, as Pennwest offices remain evacuated until at least later this week according to company representatives.
Updates on this spill will continue to be provided as they become available. Next update is expected to be released at 3:00pm.
For More Information Contact:
Garrett Tomlinson, EMT
Communications / Industry Liaison
Lubicon Lake Nation
P.O. Box 6731 Stn. Main
Peace River, AB T8S 1S3
(780) 618-3794 Direct
(780) 629-3939 Fax
Info@LubiconLakeNation.ca
www.LubiconLakeNation.ca