The Trail Health Review Committee (THRC) was initiated by the Provincial Health Officer in response to a request from then Chief MHO and the portfolio MHO from Interior Health. The pandemic interrupted this group and upon resumption of the work, many staffing changes had occurred at IH, at ENV, and some changes at MoH. After discussion with myself, IH’s then CMHO, Dr Martin Lavoie (also deputy CPHO), and Dr Bonnie Henry, it was determined that IH would take the lead on this work with support from the province (OPHO and Ministry of Health). This would continue to be collaborative work with ENV and Teck. (Teck would be more involved than they were under THRC). The City of Trail would be updated on progress and able to express any concerns. The Ministries (up to ADMs) of both health and environment would also be updated along with Dr Lavoie, as deputy PHO.

Thus, the THRC was discontinued, and our collaborative working group was initiated to discuss and advance all relevant issues, including Teck’s HHRA, IH’s blood lead analysis, and discussions around the legislation within the EMA and CSR. This approach was effective and was recommended to continue. As such, we now have the BLLRWG. The KS&L has worked well to keep all parties updated.