I want to see the Ministry…

I want to see the Ministry phase in more stringent limits and require actions that lead to continuous improvement so that ArcelorMittal Dofasco G.P. works towards meeting the Reg 419 limits for these contaminants (benzene, suspended particulate matter, manganese and manganese compounds) over the next 2.5 years, rather than extending the status quo.

I’m also concerned that the timelines associated with the proposal to extend the SSSs for suspended particulate matter are tight and I’m left wondering whether public input is being considered in a meaningful manner.

I would like to request that the Ministry take more time to consider making the SSSs for these contaminants MORE STRINGENT over the extension period and to require updated action plans to ensure that these industrial facilities realize continuous progress with the reduction of these contaminants over the proposed extension to June 2023.

AM Dofasco’s SSS for SPM was approved back in 2010. Astonishingly it has been at the same level – 177 ug/m3 since that time. Reg 419 requires that SSSs cannot be extended beyond 10 years. Reg 419 requires that AM Dofasco reapply for an SSS for SPM and I believe this is critical to enable a more stringent SSS for SPM that includes an updated action plan to ensure SPM emission reductions are achieved. With the proposed extension, the status quo for SPM will have been maintained for 13 years. This is unacceptable.

I want confirmation that AM Dofasco G.P. will still be required to hold CLC meetings and to report back to community because full public openness and transparency is critically important where harmful industrial emissions are concerned.

I live in Hamilton, within a couple kilometres of AM Dofasco G.P. and I want to see aggressive efforts by the regulator to reduce the emissions of these harmful industrial pollutants because I’m raising my family here. We deserve better air to breathe, particularly as we are experiencing a global pandemic. AM Dofasco G.P. should be trying harder to be a good neighbour.