Message from the Eastern Regional Service Board (ERSB):
We want to acknowledge—and sincerely apologize for—the ongoing disruptions to garbage collection services that many of you are experiencing. We understand how frustrating and inconvenient delayed collections can be, and we appreciate your patience and understanding during this challenging period. Several factors occurring at the same time have contributed to these service issues. While these factors help explain the situation, they do not excuse the level of service residents have experienced. We know we can—and must—do better.
What caused the disruptions:
– Since before Christmas 2025 and continuing into January 2026, the Avalon region of Newfoundland has experienced persistent winter weather. Snow, ice, rain, extreme cold, and poor road conditions have affected collection routes and schedules.
– Higher-than-normal volumes of household waste, particularly following the Christmas holidays, have placed additional pressure on the system.
– Unexpected mechanical issues with collection equipment used by our contractors in several affected areas further impacted service.
– Accident due to weather conditions that resulted in one contractor experiencing a collection vehicle written off.
What we’re doing about it:
We are actively working with our contractors to address equipment and operational issues, improve consistency and reliability, and restore the level of service residents expect and deserve. Balancing affordability with service quality remains a top priority, ensuring that you—the customer—receive the best possible service at lowest cost.
How residents can help:
You can help us respond more effectively by:
– Reporting missed collections as soon as possible, which allows us to track issues accurately and follow up where needed.
– Signing up for Voyent Alert, a free and anonymous notification service that provides real-time updates on collection delays and service changes.
– Increasing recycling where possible, as reducing the amount of garbage at the curb helps ease pressure on the system, especially during peak periods.
Our commitment to you:
We hear your concerns and we share your frustration. Again, we remain committed to improving service reliability while delivering waste management services that are fair, sustainable, and cost-effective—now and into the future.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, patience, and valuable feedback. It helps us serve you better.
Sincerely,
EASTERN REGIONAL SERVICE BOARD
Stephen Tessier, Chairperson
Lynn Tucker, Chief Administrative Officer