AN online petition has been set up opposing plans to add fluoride to Calderdale’s drinking water.
Coun Craig Whittaker (Con, Rastrick) has started a campaign to ensure Calderdale residents have the chance to speak out on the matter following an announcement by the Yorkshire and Humber Strategic Health Authority (SHA) that it is undertaking a study into the possibility of putting fluoride into water supplies, as requested by NHS Bradford and Airedale and NHS Kirklees.
This would result in water supplies in areas of Calderdale being affected.
Coun Whittaker said petitions, posters, a website and an email address will be available for people to have their say.
He said: “I have already had a great response since announcing this campaign, with the overwhelming majority being totally opposed to fluoride being added to their drinking water.
“However, it is essential that every resident has a chance to have their voice heard.”
People can add their name to the online petition at saynotofluoridation.com or they can email their name and address to contact@saynotofluoridation.com and Coun Whittaker will send them a petition to collect signatures.
He has written to the SHA and NHS Calderdale seeking details of the approach and timescales for consultation to ensure it is robust and comprehensive.
He will put a motion to Calderdale Council in October seeking a commitment to re-confirm its opposition to adding fluoride to water.
In 2003 he succeeded in securing cross party support opposing fluoridation.