Secret Panel to Decide on Future of Controversial Additive

MMT (Methylcyclopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl) is a fuel additive that has been used in Canadian gasoline since 1977. The manufacturer says it improves the performance of gasoline by enhancing the octane, and cuts nitrogen-oxide emissions, one of the major causes of urban smog, by up to 20 per cent.

Manganese, the key ingredient of MMT, is considered by some to be toxic in large doses. Some experts claim that manganese can cause Parkinson’s-like tremors and premature aging of the brain. The Canada Safety Council believes these claims raise the issue of the safety of the product.

For many years the US Environmental Protection Agency refused to approve its use. However, in 1995 that agency was forced to do so on a point of law.

In 1996, the federal government passed Bill C-29, which banned the import and interprovincial trade of MMT but did not ban the product itself. Ethyl Canada, which manufactures MMT, says that from an environmental and health perspective there is nothing wrong with MMT. A 1994 Health Canada report found that MMT poses no risk to human health.

The company has brought a $350 million suit against the government of Canada under NAFTA because of the impact of Bill C-29 on its business and reputation. A tribunal consisting of three lawyers (one Canadian, one American and one German) will decide in secret whether MMT can be sold in Canada. The tribunal's decision will be binding; the loser cannot appeal.

This non-accountable three person panel has no apparent interest or expertise in the health and safety of the Canadian people. Yet it has been given absolute power to make a decision with potentially serious consequences on the health and safety of Canadians (as well as a possible multi-million dollar liability to the taxpayer). What precedent does this set?

To say MMT is controversial would be an understatement. Should it be sold in Canada or not? The Canada Safety Council would like to see this decision made by elected officials with the input of health and safety experts, environmental scientists, manufacturers and consumers. Not to do so undermines the concerns and efforts of those working in the fields of health, the environment and safety.

Postscript, July 24, 1998: This week the Canadian government lifted the trade ban on MMT and made a settlement of $13 million US with the manufacturer.

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