Montreal waits before decontaminating hidden dump sites

Many Montrealerswhofound out months ago their homes may have been built on old dump sites say they're tired of waiting for the city to take action.

• Contaminated dumps could be beneath 100s of Montreal homes and parks

"Ican't afford to decontaminate my land," said Rosemont resident RichardTremblay, who isone of hundreds of people who may be living on contaminated land.

Tremblayis one of manywho didn't know the history of the land his home is built on until a Radio-Canada access to information request was released in the fall.

It showed that there are nearly 80 contaminatedsites where hundreds of buildings, schools and parks have since been built.

Tremblay saidthe city must admit what is happening and take action.

On a mobile device? Tap here for the map.

City dragging its feet, opposition says

The opposition saidthe city needs to step up and do something about this problem.

"I find this unacceptable...They need answers," said Project Montreal citycouncillorSylvainOuellet."Is it safe? Are their houses losing value?"

Ouellet said hewants the city administration to ask the province for money to help people decontaminate their property.

City reviewing situation

Montreal Mayor Denis Coderre saidthe city needs more time.

Coderre said a committee has been formed between the city, the provincial health and environment ministries. He said he wants all the answers before making anydecisions.

"Everyone works together to ensure that we can have all the answersall the answers tothese questions," Coderre said.