DIBC’s efforts rely on a deficient technical report issued by Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) in 2012. At the time back in May 2013 when the decision was being deliberated by the Snyder administration, I sent a letter outlining my objections which include:

• Our existing capacity for hazardous materials freight is safely and efficiently meeting the current needs.

• I am apprised that a comprehensive public safety analysis has not been vetted in consultation with key stakeholders prior to the drafting of this report.

• I am also very troubled by the fact that the Windsor Fire Department was not consulted to provide any public safety risk analysis with respect to MDOT’s proposal prior to the drafting of MDOT’s recommendation. This fact alone is a glaring deficiency in the report and is enough to rationalize a complete dismissal of the recommendations developed from this incomplete report.

• Allowing Hazmat freight onto the Ambassador Bridge will increase the flow of international freight traffic through a densely populated urban environment in my community.

• Introducing additional international hazmat freight through a densely populated section of Windsor in proximity schools, community centres, seniors’ residences and major shopping hubs may introduce unnecessary risks to the community.

• The specific recommendation may in fact reduce efficiency at the Windsor-Detroit border.

All these objections remain operative.

Furthermore, as you are no doubt aware the DIBC has been corporate actor that has demonstrated a level of disregard for its host communities as well as a willingness to break the rules and regulations on both sides of the border. This has engendered public distrust of the DIBC that is justified. We all wish this to be different but that takes concerted effort and meaningful actions to mend this relationship. Putting the public at risk of exposure to hazardous materials that could be toxic, radioactive, flammable, poisonous, or explosive would be choosing corporate profits rather than public safety. This is an unacceptable risk when the status quo protects the public and other businesses.

I urge to you to uphold the well thought out decision of the previous administration and reject the DIBC’s request.

I appreciate your time and attention to this issue. Please feel free to contact me if you have questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Brian Masse, Member of Parliament (Windsor West)

NDP Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Critic