Burlington, VT - Congressman-elect Peter Welch today issued the following statement in reaction to the International Paper Company's cancellation of its test-burn.

"I join all Vermonters in expressing relief that this inappropriate test-burn will not continue," said Welch. "However, it should not have occurred without the installation of equipment necessary to protect public health. It is important that the state continue the ongoing medical surveillance plan that the Vermont Department of Health is currently conducting," said Welch.

"I join the Vermont Congressional delegation in urging the Environmental Protection Agency to monitor closely any damaging side-effects of the tire-burn," said Welch.

Welch issued the above statement from Washington, D.C., where he is attending a week-long orientation for new members of Congress.