PFAS “Forever Chemicals” Found in Quebec’s Water Supply; Class Action Launched

MONTREAL – The widespread presence of PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), commonly known as “forever chemicals,” has been detected in Quebec’s drinking water, prompting legal action. A comprehensive study by the Université de Montréal last year found PFAS in 99.3% of drinking water samples from 376 municipalities across the province. The findings have raised concerns, especially after Health Canada proposed a new guideline earlier this year, setting a limit of 30 nanograms per litre (ng/L) for total PFAS in drinking water.

PFAS are synthetic chemicals used in various industrial and consumer products, including non-stick cookware and water-repellent fabrics. Known for their persistence in the environment and resistance to breaking down, these substances have been linked to serious health problems such as cancer, liver damage, and developmental issues in children.

Class Action Lawsuit to Address Contamination

In response to the alarming levels of PFAS contamination, law firm Slater Vecchio LLP has initiated a class action lawsuit in Quebec. The suit seeks compensation for past and future costs associated with removing PFAS from water supplies, as well as protection for municipalities and private well owners from financial burdens tied to the contamination.

“This is an urgent situation that requires immediate action to protect public health,” said Saro Turner, a partner at Slater Vecchio. “By holding manufacturers accountable, we aim to ensure that the communities affected by these harmful chemicals are not left to bear the costs of cleanup.”

The class action is designed to unite municipalities and private well owners in a collective effort to secure compensation from companies responsible for the PFAS contamination. It also advocates for policy changes to prevent future pollution and promote long-term water security.

Financial Strain on Quebec Communities

Municipalities and private well owners are already facing significant financial challenges in dealing with PFAS contamination. These include testing and monitoring water supplies, upgrading treatment facilities with advanced filtration technology, and safely disposing of the chemicals. Without formal regulations in place, many are left shouldering the costs independently.

Slater Vecchio encourages affected communities to start tracking PFAS-related expenses to strengthen their case for future financial recovery. By documenting costs early, municipalities and well owners can better position themselves for compensation and support.

Implications from U.S. PFAS Regulations

Developments in the United States could influence Quebec’s approach to PFAS regulation. In April 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized the first national drinking water standard for PFAS, setting legally enforceable limits on these chemicals. The regulation is expected to reduce PFAS exposure for millions of Americans and prevent thousands of deaths.

Recent settlements in the U.S. have also highlighted the potential for financial recovery. In 2023, 3M agreed to pay up to $12.5 billion to public water systems affected by PFAS, while DuPont and other chemical companies reached a $4 billion settlement. Quebec’s class action aims to achieve similar outcomes by holding polluters accountable and securing funds for necessary remediation.

Next Steps for Affected Communities

Municipalities and private well owners concerned about PFAS contamination are urged to contact Slater Vecchio LLP for a consultation. By joining the class action, they can contribute to holding manufacturers accountable and securing resources to address the contamination.

With PFAS contamination posing a growing threat, this legal action represents a critical step towards protecting the health and safety of Quebec’s communities.

SOURCE: Town of Lincoln