On Thursday, British Columbians learned that the Cosmetic Pesticides Legislative Committee wants increased public education and licensing of pesticide applicators.
This is the weakest, “do nothing” approach of any province considering banning the sale and use of traditional, highly toxic lawn and garden pesticides.
Seven provinces have all banned 2,4-D, the one ingredient Committee chair Bill Bennett said should not be prohibited.
In addition to rejecting provincial bans as “unscientific,” the committee’s Liberal majority endorsed Health Canada’s approval of the chemical landscaping industry’s pesticide products. We just need to be educated about “safe” use.
While the committee dismissed submissions from many British Columbians and organizations supporting a ban, the premier has wanted one “for years now” and Environment Minister Lake championed a Union of B.C. Municipalities ban resolution when he was Kamloops mayor in 2008.
When the premier returns from her trade mission, she needs to instruct Minister Lake to draft precautionary ban legislation like Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia.
Last year B.C. passed one of the toughest animal cruelty laws in Canada because of 56 dead Olympic sled dogs. There’s more than sled dogs in need of protection in B.C.
JUDY WIGMORE
Pesticide Free B.C.
Kamloops
