Group wants court to pause return of fluoride to Calgary’s water system
Posted Jul 9, 2025 5:16 pm.
Last Updated Jul 9, 2025 10:47 pm.
Fluoride is back in Calgary’s drinking water for the first time in 15 years, however not everyone is thrilled about it.
A group called ‘Safe Water Calgary’ held a rally outside the city’s downtown courthouse Wednesday afternoon as they attempt to pause the reintroduction of fluoride to the water system..
A member of the group has filed an emergency injunction asking a judge to pause the reintroduction of fluoride while the issue is further reviewed.
“That’s why we’re taking them to court, to put a pause, not to stop it necessarily,” says Robert Dickson. “Just to put a pause on it so that we can get the true experts from both sides to look at this more closely.”
Dickson is a physician who says he’s been studying fluoridation for more than two decades, arguing the decision was based on old data and outdated public opinion.
After the court heard the group’s initial statement Wednesday, the case was adjourned to Aug. 1.
Calgary reintroduced fluoride to its drinking water on June 30.
The return had been delayed at least three times over the last four years, with the city citing the costs of upgrading Calgary’s two water treatment plans as a roadblock.
A 2021 plebiscite during the municipal election saw 62 per cent in favour of a reintroduction. It was originally removed in 2011.
