Environment

Benoit Charette defends the government's approach to the Horne Smelter emissions, rejecting Quebec Solidaire's concerns as 'fear-mongering,' asserting the CAQ has tightened standards since 2018 and that 'a significant reduction has been observed over the years,' implying current measures are adequate.

Legault supports protecting Horne Smelter jobs while ensuring public health and air quality; he will grant seven years of regulatory predictability only if Glencore commits to modernization and emission controls and if municipal officials confirm social acceptability of standards.

Jean Boulet supports granting extensions for the Horne Smelter to protect about 600 jobs, arguing the decision strikes the right balance between employment and emissions controls, and that this balance is socially acceptable and compatible with local authorities and health officials.

Sol Zanetti condemns Glencore's emissions in Rouyn-Noranda as poisoning residents, urging action to protect children and communities from cancer-causing pollution and criticizing government concessions that prioritize corporate interests over public health.