Health Canada's Golden Rule →

August 5, 2025 Nicole Hancock

When Dr. John O'Connor raised concerns over oil industry activity and the possible linkages to illness in the community of Fort Chipwyan, Alberta he must have known that he was breaking Health Canada's - Golden Rule - the one with the Gold makes the rules. The approach seems to be that unless there are scads of data to prove that a problem exists, it cannot even be mentioned as a potential problem.

Email Susan at blacklinsusan@gmail.com

Susan respectfully acknowledges the unceded traditional territory of the Qualicum First Nation on which she lives, and the traditional keepers of their land. She stands in solidarity with First Nations people on the myriad of issues where they have been wronged. In part, writing about water issues is Susan's declaration that she stands in solidarity with Indigenous Peoples in Canada. She does not profess to have all the answers. She hopes that by sharing what she knows with others, many will open their eyes and minds to new ways of thinking, processing what they learn or need to unlearn, and pressure those in positions of power to step up and take appropriate action.