A social impact assessment of the Electric Reduction Company of Canada's phosphorus plant at Long Harbour, Placentia Bay

Abstract

This thesis deals with the topic of resource development from the approach of social impact analysis. Social impact assessment is a relatively new sociological procedure, having emerged from the socially aware 1960's. Social Impact Analysis (SIA) is primarily concerned with the social repercussions of resource development, its effects upon individuals and the community structure, which are investigated by sociologists. -- The site dealt with in this respect is the phosphorous production plant, owned by Erco Industries of Canada, Ltd. at Long Harbour, Placentia Bay. This thesis investigates the influences that such an industry has had upon a wide range of community activities such as education, religion, and the economy. The community of Mount Arlington Heights, approximately five miles from the plant site, and less than a mile from the community of Long Harbour is also studied because of its close geographical proximity to Long Harbour. The two communities are also incorporated under one town council. -- To study the impact Erco has had upon these communities community profiles of Long Harbour and Mount Arlington Heights were constructed. Through utilizing such community profiles, changes resulting from the plant's being built in the area can be more easily assessed. Three investigative strategies: 1. secondary analysis; 2. semi-structured interviewing; and 3. survey analysis, provided data for the impact assessment. -- The Erco phosphorous plant is the major source of employment for the communities of Long Harbour and Mount Arlington Heights. Both communities receive numerous other economic benefits such as tax revenue, as well as charitable donations. On the debit side Erco received many concessions from both the provincial and federal governments. The controversial power contract is but one illustration of such concessions. -- Additionally, the history of the Erco plant has been plagued by pollution problems which Long Harbour residents in the main, must confront. -- An evaluation of this range of positive and negative consequences for the people of Long Harbour and Mount Arlington Heights comprises the major portion of this thesis. To fully appreciate and evaluate the phosphorous plant. however, it is necessary to understand the governmental assumptions and philosophy toward economic development from which this particular resource industry emerged. Therefore, I have tried to situate the Erco plant within the sociological literature on economic development and the political models of development prevalent within Newfoundland at the time the plant was constructed. Chapter 2, in particular, reflects such an attempt.