Anti-fluoride group raises concerns

The Central Coast Pure Water Association raised concerns about health and cost issues with the new groundwater treatment plant in Woy Woy.

Association chairperson Ms Sylvia Turner said most people were not aware that Gosford Council had approved a fluoridation plant at Woy Woy.

At the anti-fluoride group's first public meeting two weeks ago, questions were raised about the chemical, which will be contained at the Woy Woy Council Depot site where the ground water treatment will be undertaken.

"Concerns raised referred to the safety and security of the local residents should there be an accident or spill," Ms Turner said.

"The cost of these plants was not mentioned at the council meeting where the mayor used his casting vote to approve fluoride for Gosford," Ms Turner said.

"While in other regions, the Health Department offered to pay around $600,000 per plant, here in Gosford negotiations are still being held.

"Despite the State Government's approval for funding to the other regions, it is worth noting that those funds still haven't been paid to the councils."

Ms Turner said local residents needed to ask why the mayor "misled them" when he claimed a saving of $1 million to put in works to ensure fluoride-free water when, according to previous council business papers "council's contribution was only $450,000".

"I was very surprised to see a number of people at the meeting who have adverse reactions to chemicals," Ms Turner said.

"These people wanted to know how to avoid fluoride or if council is prepared to reimburse them for the costs to provide alternatives and/or doctors and hospital bills should they become ill."

Ms Turner said the CCPWA was happy to hear from people who may be adversely affected.

"As Gosford is one of the last regions with a large population to be fluoridated in NSW, there could be a higher concentration of people who have specifically moved here to avoid fluoridation," Ms Turner said.

"These people will be disadvantaged by the addition of fluoride to their drinking water and should be compensated accordingly."

More information can be obtained on at www.ccpurewater.org or by telephoning 0408 439 348.

Press release, 19 March 2007 Sylvia Turner, Central Coast Pure Water Association Incorporated