Pool problem persists

Re: “Lawson Aquatic Centre pool still not fixed” (Jan. 15 Leader-Post): If the Lawson Aquatic Centre was privately run, the air quality problems plaguing the facility would have been remedied months ago. Instead, the powers that be have taken their sweet time correcting a very serious health issue.

For the city’s director of facilities management to say, “I will not say that one incident is too many,” is irresponsible. She says, “those who are experiencing symptoms is very small compared to the number of users.”

The aquatic clubs cover the bulk of Lawson rental fees. Our young people are the heaviest users. They swim two to four hours every day. Their workouts are intense, often with high heart rates.

A couple of weeks ago, a coach stopped practice midway and sent kids home because six out of 10 were experiencing extreme breathing issues including vomiting. A similar occurrence happened later that same week. This situation is common and has been an ongoing issue since March.

Consultants’ reports are taking their sweet time arriving, and the city is working at a snail’s pace.

As a parent of a competitive swimmer, I’m fed up with the glacial walk at which things are being resolved. I withdrew my son from swimming for several weeks last year. Now, every practice is taken on a day-byday basis. There are days when he does not go.

The city is obligated to create an environment that is safe for everyone and to the contrary, one incident IS too many.

CJ Katz, Regina