NDP Leaders Relieved as Toxic Sarnia Chemical Plant to Finally Shut Down

QUEEN'S PARK – Sol Mamakwa (Kiiwetinoong), Official Opposition NDP Deputy Leader, and MPP Sandy Shaw (Hamilton West - Ancaster - Dundas), critic for Environment, Conservation and Parks, issued the following statement regarding the closure of the INEOS chemical plant in Sarnia:

"We have been advocating for the closure of this hazardous plant for months, and we are relieved that this polluting company will finally end operations. In 2024, it is unacceptable for companies to get away with polluting our air and endangering communities as they did in the past."

INEOS Styrolution CEO Steve Harrington said, "The long-term prospects for the Sarnia site have worsened to the point that it is no longer an economically viable operating asset."

"This statement shows the true nature of these companies: they will poison people to profit, and when told to correct their harmful practices, they claim it's no longer economically viable,” continued Mamakwa. "This closure serves as a critical reminder that companies cannot participate in environmental racism by polluting the air of Ontarians and First Nations communities without facing the consequences. Our land and waters matter."

"The closure of this plant was a necessary first step to protect the environment and ensure clean air for our communities," echoed Shaw. "We call upon the government to step up and support the workers affected by this closure. It is crucial that they prioritize the health and safety of our environment. This action is a positive stride towards holding polluters accountable and ensuring a cleaner, healthier future for everyone."