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Kirkland Lake Project |
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Meeting - November 29, 2000
Meeting commenced at 7:08pm by Chair Robert Macdonald. There was no agenda set for the meeting, however all attendees brought questions to the front regarding the Proposed Terms of Reference document and the set of Background Documents 1-7. A number of CAC members noted that the new information provided (background documents 1-7) was mostly review. Chris noted that the information regarding alternative technologies is a useful tool in dealing with questions from the public. Two of the alternative technologies dealt with were the EcoLogic Process and Plasma Energy; both suggested by members of the public. Danny provided a summary to CAC members. Virginia questioned whether there may be negative feedback based on the mention of a Toronto reclamation project in the Background Document 1: BEI Business Opportunity. She suggested that BEI bring this possibility to light in order to possibly avoid criticism from those opposed to the Adams Mine Proposal. BEI will consider both this and methods for bringing it to light; pointing out that contaminated materials can be found everywhere, and RSI has already treated sites from northern regions. A small discussion ensued as to who (BEI or clients) is responsible for the shipping of contaminated and then treated material. Contaminated material shipped to the facility is normally dealt with by the client, and treated material is BEI's responsibility. Todd questioned what area contaminated material will be accepted from. Danny confirmed that NAFTA signatory countries have been stated in the Proposed Terms of Reference for approval. The question was then raised by Virginia as to whether or not BEI had considered Chapter 11 from NAFTA. BEI had not considered yet, but will look into. Flavio commented that the background documents are supplementary information for public knowledge. The Terms of Reference is the important document because it is what will hopefully be approved by the Minister of the Environment. Danny mentioned that some of the issues from the public are best addressed in background documents as the issues are not approvable type issues for the Terms of Reference. Tom wondered what the total budget is for the Environmental Assessment. Danny responded that it is currently at $2.3 million. Chris questioned what 'slug tests' are (mentioned on pg. 4 of ToR). Virginia and Flavio responded that it is to test for the permeability of water through bedrock/rock. Chris wondered about the archaeological study and that it might bring up native land claim issues. It may also be useful to investigate native history in the region ourselves to get a feel for it. Flavio responded that the preliminary findings from the archaeological investigation showed no evidence of historical native land use. Tom wondered about rail transport of the contaminated material. Danny responded that most of BEI's clients are not close to a rail line resulting in an extra step in transportation (truck to rail). Also, clients are sensitive about the material and like to be able to track it at all times during the trip. This is difficult with rail transport. Flavio added that BEI is asking truck companies to have GPS available for the tracking of material as well. Virginia suggested notifying specific service groups or companies of open house times to extend our reach in educating people on the proposed facility and to increase our open house attendance. BEI responded that the idea is a good one and will be investigated further WRT lists of service groups in the Kirkland Lake area as well as company staff #'s. Todd suggested a possible media campaign - flyers that give project updates etc. with pictures and simple yet clear descriptions of topics. Todd wondered if a plume would be visible from the stack of the facility. Danny responded that a vapour plume will be visible in winter but will dissipate quickly (with a gap between the stack and where the plume starts) however in summer, the plume will barely be visible if at all. Virginia wondered how the health and safety record is at the RSI facility. Also the availability of monitors that can be worn by employees to show peaks and times of chemical exposure/levels etc. Danny said there is a health and safety officer at RSI whose job it is to keep track of all things WRT to H&S. There are visits from the workers compensation officers, there are blood tests performed on employees before hiring and every 6-12 months as well. Todd mentioned that BEI might want to address the 'notices of infractions' at RSI as there have been some question about that from local residents. BEI will consider a method for doing this. Robert closed the seventh meeting of the CAC at approximately 9pm. The next meeting will be scheduled at a later date. For more information please contact us at info@bennettenv.com © 2001 Bennett Environmental Inc. 
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