Penticton joins B.C. lawsuit against makers of ‘forever chemicals’

Penticton is set to be a class representative in a B.C. lawsuit against the makers of so-called “forever chemicals” that the province says are involved in contamination of drinking-water systems.

By joining the national suit, filed in June 2024 with the B.C. Supreme Court, the City of Penticton will represent municipalities and ensure the “experience and evidence of local governments is included as the case moves forward,” according to the province.

The defendants are manufacturers of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of chemicals used in cleaning supplies, cookware, clothing, furniture, and carpets.

B.C. Minister of Health Josie Osbourne on June 1 said exposure to PFAS is linked to increased blood pressure, developmental impacts in children and “even some cancers.”

The province was the first jurisdiction in Canada to take legal action against manufacturers of PFAS, with the court soon expected to decide whether it can proceed as a class action.

As part of that process, B.C. has asked the court to include the City of Penticton to represent municipalities.

“Our water is safe, but the ongoing costs of monitoring and mitigating these forever chemicals are significant,” said Penticton Mayor Julius Bloomfield. “By joining this action, we are helping ensure municipalities are not left to manage the long-term costs of these contaminants on their own.”

B.C. Attorney General Niki Sharma added that working with Penticton is “strengthening this class action and making sure companies that created and profited from chemicals that are affecting our water systems are held accountable.”

In a media release, the province also cited its environmental concerns over PFAS, which are repellents for dirt, water and grease.

“Forever chemicals contaminate rivers, lakes, and groundwater for generations,” said Randene Neill, B.C.’s Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship.

“We’re committed to protecting B.C.’s source water and making it clear, alongside the City of Penticton, that forever chemicals have no place in our drinking water systems.”