Letter to the editor
I was quite concerned to see the Pioneer article published on March 6, citing Invermere council revisiting the decision about Rogers Communications Inc wanting to erect a 25-metre high monopole.
It was concerning to see the paragraph when Mr. Rockafellow said that “According to federal guidelines, concerns about potential health risks are not a reason to reject proposed cell towers.” I had to read that again and I completely concur with Councillor Grant Kelly.
There is a lot of information about the effect of these towers on local populations. I would like to know whether a 5G tower is being proposed and regardless, is it not the duty and responsibility of the council to conduct a full safety investigation and risk assessment before approving this application? Have they failed to address this? Simply stating that “hopefully, after a while, the cell tower would not stand out to residents as much as it will initially” and that “the service is needed” are not responses that residents expect.
Will the council’s public liability insurance provide cover for possible adverse health effects caused by masts authorized by the council? Does the Pioneer have an investigative journalist working there?
It’s to be hoped that the further discussions between Rogers and the council will include questions about health effects, regardless of Mr. Rockafellow’s comments, and will not just be about the aesthetics.
Sue Garbett, Invermere
