Toronto, Canada
April 22, 2008
CropLife Canada, the trade association representing Canada's
plant science industry has expressed support in
principle for Ontario's new proposal aimed at ending the
non-essential use of pesticides, but urged that new legislation
be founded on the weight of scientific evidence available
globally.
"We support a focus on eliminating the improper or unnecessary
use of pesticides," said Dr. Lorne Hepworth, President, CropLife
Canada. "New legislation should be founded strictly on science.
It is important to remember
that the products available to consumers have been approved as
safe for use through a rigorous regulatory process by Health
Canada and other regulators around the world."
"Let's focus on eliminating improper or unnecessary use - not
the products themselves," Hepworth said. "Our goal is to help
the Ontario government develop measures to ensure these products
are only used when necessary and then, safely and responsibly by
homeowners."
Nationally, Health Canada is responsible for evaluating all
pesticides to determine if they are safe and effective before
they can be sold or used. All pesticides, whether they are used
in agriculture, golf courses or on lawns and
gardens, have been assessed by Health Canada for potential risks
to human health and the environment with special attention to
children's health.
"The focus needs to be on how best to ensure that these
nationally approved products are used properly, and only used
where and when they are truly needed," added Dr. Hepworth. "We
look forward to working with the
Ontario government, Health Canada and other concerned groups to
implement responsible use practices."
Experts agree that the best approach to ensure safety to the
public and the environment is Integrated Pest Management.
Integrated Pest Management or IPM means using the Right Tool, at
the Right Time, in the Right Way in the Right Place. By focusing
on proper use only when necessary, and sticking with Health
Canada's science-based regulatory approach, Ontario will be
protecting a sound scientific foundation for public policy, and
the healthy green spaces that cool our climate, reduce erosion,
produce our oxygen and provide the soft landscapes on which we
live and play.
"Regulations that focus on responsible use ensures Ontario
supports and builds upon the health and safety measures already
in place," stressed Dr. Hepworth. "Safe and responsible use
offers a solution to ensure the public has access to important
tools to safely protect their family, their homes and Ontario's
greenspace from pests that can threaten health and devastate
landscape."
CropLife Canada is the trade association representing the
developers, manufacturers and distributors of plant science
innovations - pest control products and plant biotechnology -
for use in agriculture, urban and public health settings.
CropLife Canada stands for safety and innovation supported by a
foundation of continuous research and a strong commitment to
stewardship. |
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