Elevated radiation levels in Ontario

ONTARIO - Elevated levels of radiation have been detected in Ontario in the wake of the Japanese nuclear disaster after last monthÂ’s tragic earthquake, Energy Minister Brad Duguid says.

However, the minister told reporters that he does not know where it is — if it is in milk or in the air — and when it got here.

Radioactive iodine has been discovered in milk in the eastern United States, according to New Democratic MPP France Gelinas Nickel Belt who brought the issue up during question period.

On March 11, a magnitude 8.9 earthquake struck off the northeast coast of Japan, killing more than 10,000 people and crippling the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear reactors.

Duguid referred reporters to federal websites to find out more information from federal authorities such as Health Canada.

“I understand that there is and has been some detection of minor increases in radiation but it is not anywhere close to something that would be any impact in terms of human health and it is not something Ontario residents need to be overly concerned about,” he said.

“They have had similar readings, I believe, in the United States,” he said. “In terms of the specifics of those readings they may be available on the federal websites.”

Duguid said Ontario authorities would continue to be vigilant and that people can be assured food and milk is safe.

Health Minister Deb Matthews told Gelinas she will ask Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Arlene King to look into the issue and see if there are any potential health threats here.