The requests of three additional parties to join the appeal hearings into orders placed on INEOS Styrolution were approved on Friday.
Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) Chair Hugh Wilkins granted Annette George, Crystal George, and Gary McNickle party status.
Annette, a resident of Aamjiwnaang First Nation, and Crystal, a resident of Corunna, plan to provide testimony focusing on air emissions, their lived experiences, and individual perspective.
Their counsel said the testimony would not duplicate evidence provided by Aamjiwnaang First Nation in the case.
McNickle said he attends the band office area at Aamjiwnaang regularly and has a direct interest in the case for his and his family's health.
INEOS counsel argued that Aamjiwnaang First Nation had already been added as a party to the proceedings, and the views of the additional applicants would be adequately served by the existing parties.
Gabrielle Kramer warned having additional parties added to the hearing could delay proceedings.
The request was granted during a case management conference between all parties as they prepare for a hearing.
INEOS Styrolution is appealing the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) Director’s Order to the Ontario Land Tribunal and an amendment to the company's Environmental Compliance Approval (ECA) and Notice of Suspension of the ECA.
The orders were placed after neighbouring Aamjiwnaang First Nation reported elevated levels of benzene, which made residents feel ill on April 16.
The OLT granted 12 days to finalize the amended notice of request for appeal and issues list.
Chair Wilkins said if there is a need for a further case management conference it can be requested.
The tribunal also scheduled 12 days for a hearing to begin on September 30.
Chair Wilkins said he wasn't opposed to holding part, or all, of the hearing in person in Sarnia.
Instructions were being sought on a two-day stay motion previously scheduled.