Regional health officials in Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, have raised concerns once more regarding the arsenic emissions from the Horne Smelter, which is owned by the Swiss multinational company Glencore. Glencore recently announced the suspension of a $300 million investment aimed at modernizing the plant to reduce pollution, citing challenges in meeting the current permit requirements by March 2027. This includes achieving a target of 15 nanograms of arsenic per cubic meter in ambient air, potentially leading to the smelter’s closure.
In response, the Quebec government has introduced an amendment under Bill 11 to provide Glencore Canada with the regulatory predictability it requested. The proposed amendment would extend the deadline for reducing arsenic and other contaminant emissions to 2029-30, delaying the attainment of emission targets by two years, which still exceeds the provincial norm by five times.
Dr. Omobola Sobanjo, head of the Abitibi-Témiscamingue public health department, emphasized the importance of protecting individuals living near the smelter, particularly children. She highlighted concerns raised by the Institut national de santé publique du Québec (INSPQ) regarding potential neurodevelopmental impacts of arsenic emissions, even below the target levels.
Sobanjo also expressed worries about cancer risks associated with arsenic emissions, pointing out that the current levels pose one case of cancer per 10,000 people, considered unacceptable by international standards. She stressed the need to expedite efforts to reduce emissions to mitigate health risks and potential social and psychological impacts on the community.
Moreover, a class-action lawsuit authorized by a Quebec Superior Court judge in October 2025 involves Rouyn-Noranda residents suing Glencore and the provincial government for alleged violations of environmental standards and neighborhood disturbances. Glencore maintains the safety of its operations at the smelter, while health officials urge prompt action to address the environmental and health concerns associated with the emissions.