Some strong words for The City of Calgary when it comes to the discovery of dangerously toxic asbestos in Calgary streets.

A report for The City shows core samples taken from various roads in March, indicate more than half contained high levels of the toxic mineral. The finding has raised health concerns for the public, as well as construction crews.

The President of the Alberta Federation of Labour tells 660News asbestos is deadly, and the city needs to take the issue more seriously.

Gil McGowan says that asbestos is the leading cause of workplace deaths worldwide, and the city should follow Toronto’s lead when dealing with it.

Toronto issued a public safety warning this week after asbestos was found in some of it’s streets. Construction crews are outfitted with hazmat suits while working on the roads.

Calgary Alderman Jon Mar plans to take the issue-up with City Administration at the end of the month.

He calls the findings scary, and is concerned about public safety.

660 Staff, July 18 2008