Soil samples are to be shipped overseas as Government continues its investigation into claims Agent Orange was dumped and burned at Kindley Air Force Base.

Speaking at a press conference today, Works and Engineering Minister Dennis Lister said a local company would collect specimens of soil but that Bermuda does not have the technology to carry out the necessary tests. Batches will therefore be sent abroad, thought to be Canada, with results expected by September 4.

It comes after US Army veteran Ronald Slater alleged the lethal defoliant - now said to cause horrific disfigurements and serious illness to those exposed to it - was disposed at Kindley in the 1960s. Mr. Slater said numerous barrels of the toxic substance were poured into deep pits before being set on fire, sending thick smoke over nearby St. David's homes. He said he was then instructed to bulldoze the remaining waste into the sea.

Mr. Lister told the press conference: “I fully expect that the results of the current testing will be similar to the tests taken at the time of the US departure from the Baselands. As indicated, those extensive tests did not reveal any measurable levels of contaminants.”

* For full story see tomorrow's Royal Gazette.