Algoma Steel is asking for…

Algoma Steel is asking for an extension to their exemptions from provincial pollution standards when it comes to particulates and benzene -- a known carcinogen. The current Algoma Steel site-specific standard for benzene is five times the provincial benzene standard. The fact that substantive progress has not been made on meeting provincial standards and the people of Sault Ste. Marie are being asked to live with sub-standard levels of particulates and benzene is concerning. The point of the site-specific standards is for continuous improvement, and that has not been occurring, putting citizen health and safety at risk when Sault Ste. Marie already has very high rates of cancer. It is already common knowledge that the systems put in place to measure particulate are a sham. It is unconscionable that this exemption is even being requested.