QUEBEC — As the federal government considers a comprehensive ban on asbestos, two Quebec cabinet ministers say they worry about what it will mean for jobs in the province.
Transport Minister Laurent Lessard urged the Trudeau government Wednesday to “take it easy” and consult with Quebec before making any brash decisions.
“What we’re saying is ‘Listen, we think you’re needlessly rushing a decision’,” Lessard said, adding companies in his riding of Lotbinière—Frontenac have already started mining asbestos tailings, or residue, for magnesium. The process uses what would otherwise be left as waste.
“If the federal government bans asbestos residues, then we have a problem,” he said, “because our regions will say, ‘That’s enough.’
“If the federal government goes there, it will find us in its path, every day,” Lessard said.
Asbestos is known around the world to cause deadly cancers and lung diseases, and was banned in Europe, Australia and Japan.
But Quebec argues transforming its millions of tons of residues is safe and environmentally friendly, since there is no digging or extracting involved, and practically no greenhouse gas emissions generated.
Three companies are already involved in multi-million-dollar projects transforming asbestos residues in Quebec, said Richmond Liberal MNA Karine Vallières.
Natural Resources Minister Pierre Arcand said his priority is the “workers in that sector” but did not say how many people are in danger of losing their jobs.
cplante@postmedia.com
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