Air quality at risk as Libs fail to enforce pollution standards: NDP

Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath says the Wynne Liberals owe Hamilton residents an explanation – and action – after a toxic steam cloud was released by a steel mill recently.

“Over the Thanksgiving weekend, a toxic and foul-smelling cloud was emitted from the ArcelorMittal Dofasco site in Hamilton, sending a dark plume over the surrounding neighbourhoods as families were trying to enjoy their holidays. This is the latest example of what is known in the steel industry as a process called ‘coffining,’” explained Horwath, the MPP for Hamilton-Centre this morning during question period.

The same facility failed to meet air pollution compliance standards for 2017, but the Minister of the Environment and Climate Change granted an extension to the operator instead of forcing them to bring operations in to compliance. A nearby steel facility not only meets the 2017 standards, but actually exceeds standards set to come in to place in 2020.

Horwath’s question followed up on a letter she sent to the Minister this morning (see attached).

“When the minister selectively enforces the rules for emitters, it’s not fair to businesses that follow the rules,” said Horwath.

She urged the minister to address the problem in person.

“Will the minister come to Hamilton himself, and will he meet with Environment Hamilton, with community groups, with businesses, with city councillors, local MPPs and other stakeholders to figure out how to put an end to these coffining events once and for all?”

LETTER (pdf)