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Jail HVAC Out for Months Amid Asbestos Dispute
10 Oct
Summary
- Contractor claims $3 million over asbestos at Labrador jail.
- Jail's HVAC system has been non-operational since July.
- Asbestos dispute leads to months-long lack of ventilation.
Moss Development Corporation has filed a lawsuit against the provincial government, seeking over $3 million in damages related to alleged asbestos conditions at the Labrador Correctional Centre. The contractor claims the government's handling of asbestos issues breached their contract and caused significant delays.
As a consequence of this dispute, the Happy Valley-Goose Bay jail has been operating without a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system since July. Moss Development halted work after discovering dust in the ductwork, suspecting asbestos.
The province stated the jail was safe to occupy, but an environmental consultant later confirmed asbestos in settled dust, recommending specific abatement procedures. The contractor refuses to connect a new HVAC unit until these procedures are completed.
Correctional staff representatives have expressed extreme concern over the prolonged lack of ventilation, citing health and safety issues, especially with winter approaching. They are demanding clarity on the risks and a timely resolution.
