EDITOR
I was dismayed to again be at an official event (Canada Day) where helium balloons were being given out. One only needed to watch for a few minutes to see how many were immediately being let go into the environment. These balloons are a danger to land and sea animals. Sea birds are especially vulnerable as they feed the colourful tidbits to their young, who then starve to death. Sea turtles also particularly drawn to them. Helium balloons are illegal in New South Wales (Australia) for this very reason.One report from Newfoundland on this topic is at www.env.gov.nl.ca/env/env_protection/waste/guidancedocs/helium_balloon_release.pdf. There are many other resources available.I was also surprised to find our MP John Weston handing them out and having never heard of the issue. Let's hope he is more knowledgeable about our salmon.I brought the issue of helium balloons up with Canada Day organizers on site last year with no apparent effect for this year. I hope I won't be doing it again next year.Dorte Froslev
Brackendale
