Mercury expert returns

Dr. Masazumi Harada will be making one last visit to Grassy Narrows and Whitedog later this month.

The international expert in Minimata Disease is scheduled to perform examinations in Grassy Narrows March 25 and 26, attend a special screening of The Scars of Mercury in Kenora March 27, then visit Whitedog March 28 and 29.

Harada, 75, became a global figure related to industrial pollution in connection with his work on mercury dumping in Minimata Bay. He made his first trip to Northwestern Ontario in 1975.

During his last visit, in 2004, Harada estimated some 80 per cent of the 140 residents he examined in the two communities showed symptoms of mercury poisoning. While the hair samples showed levels of mercury had dropped, the effects of poisoning on the body aren't reversible.

As a result, the doctor warned against further consumption of fish in large quantities by those with symptoms, since it could be hazardous to their health. Expectant mothers may also pass on the disease to their fetus if they consume contaminated fish during their pregnancy.

The Mercury Compensation Disability Board was set up following the 1986 agreement in order to assist those suffering from long-term effects.

Unfortunately, the symptoms are also similar to those suffering from complications related to diabetes, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, learning disorders or substance abuse. In 2004, Health Canada said it saw no reason for further scientific study into the issue of mercury contamination at either Grassy Narrows or Whitedog.

Six years ago, American expert Dr. Gary Myers, who also visited the communities, said he wasn't able to link the symptoms directly to mercury. He added he also couldn't directly link levels found in hair samples with the severity of symptoms exhibited by residents.