I am providing comment on…

I am providing comment on proposal to extend the expiry dates of the existing site-specific standards for suspended particulate matter, manganese and manganese compounds to June 30, 2023 for ArcelorMittal Dofasco. First I am concerned that there seems to be very little time for you to consider all the comments to this proposal from the public regarding changes or amendments to your proposal. I hope you are reading all comments and that we have real impact on your decision. You are accountable to residents and citizens.
The Ministry is not proposing an update to the action plans for Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM). A reduction update to the action plans for SPM should be included in the extension. ArcelorMittal Dofasco limits for SPM have been at the same level for 5 years. We need continual improvements and we need the Ministry to prescribe that in writing to the industry. It’s time to reduce the limit from 177 ug/m3 to something closer to the Reg. 419 limit of 120 ug/m3. When they control SPM then Manganese will be automatically reduced.
The community should have access to a breakdown of PM10 and PM2.5 in limits. There is sufficient data regarding the two sizes of the particulate & it’s health effects and combining them is not good science. 3 of the HAMN monitor stations collect data regarding PM2.5 and 7 of them collect data on PM10 not mentioning monitors on the industry site that you have access to. http://newreporting.hamnair.ca
Industry should have to maintain continual goals for improvements because we have no choice regarding the air we breathe here in Hamilton.The SSS for Manganese does not expire until June 2021. I ask that the Ministry needs to take more time than Dec 31, 2020 to extend the SSS and consider making the limits LOWER for Manganese. We want the industry to have constant goals for improvements because we have no choice regarding the air we breathe here in Hamilton.
The Ministry should ensure that the community liaison committees (CLC) continue during the extension of the SSS. We, as a community need regular updates to see the progress of the industry to meet the limits and that they communicate the quarterly reports to the CLC. This is really important because these are harmful chemicals and we should have a right to know what is happening. The proposal does not state whether the companies would be required to continue with CLC. Please make sure they do.
Finally the community has been patient and we are so tired of excuses. Other jurisdictions have managed to improve air quality and develop strong industry. We need leadership on the part of government and industry.