New Petitions

The next petition is PE473, from Mr Brian Turner, on airborne bacteria contamination. He calls on the Parliament to hold an inquiry into bio-aerosol and pathogenic problems relating to sewage and sludge in the sewerage and industrial waste water industry in Scotland, and to carry out an extensive study of the long-term effects of airborne contaminants on human health. He also asks whether existing legislation is adequate, given the changing nature of the sewerage and industrial waste water industry.The petition was prompted by claims that high levels of airborne bacteria, exceeding the safe levels that have been laid down, were recorded on various dates in 1998 at the Edinburgh sewage treatment works at Seafield. The petitioner details various types of harmful bacteria that East of Scotland Water recorded following background sampling on those dates. It is claimed that the bio-aerosol problem may have been further compounded by the introduction of recycled sewage water by the water authorities and water companies as a much cheaper alternative to normal tap water. The petitioner goes on to confirm evidence from local witnesses of discharges of hazardous substances between 1986 and 1998.The petitioner points out that various bodies are meant to monitor the situation. The water industry commissioner provides high-level advice to the Government on environmental matters. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency is the designated waste regulation authority in Scotland, and has a duty to ensure that waste management is carried out in compliance with the law. In fact, SEPA recently published a national waste strategy report.It is suggested that we write to the Scottish Executive, SEPA and East of Scotland Water, seeking their comments on the issues raised in the petition. In addition, the committee may wish to request an update from SEPA regarding the relevant area waste strategy. We could pass a copy of the petition to the Transport and the Environment Committee for information only at this stage. Is that agreed?Members indicated agreement.