Minister's response to concerns raised by Hydroquinone Group

Dr. John L. O'Donoghue
Scientific Advisor and Group Manager
Hydroquinone Group
3915 Clover Street
Honeoye Falls, New York
14472-9319
U.S.A.

Dear Dr. O'Donoghue:

I am responding to the notice of objection you filed on November 18, 2008, regarding the proposed Order adding hydroquinone (CAS No. 123-31-9) to the List of Toxic substances in Schedule 1 to the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, that was published in the Canada Gazette, Part I, on September 20, 2008.

Please be assured that the Government of Canada is committed to consulting with all stakeholders, such as your organization, and the public on the development of risk management options, including regulations. Issues raised will continue to be considered in an open and transparent way.

Further periods for comment as well as opportunities to file notices of objection will be provided, under the Act, following the publication of instruments for the preventive or control action of hydroquinone, such as a proposed regulation.

I appreciate your bringing the Hydroquinone Group's concerns to my attention, and look forward to working with you in the future on matters of environmental or human health interest to your group.

Sincerely,

The Honourable Jim Prentice, P.C., Q.C., M.P.