Pesticides continue to be some of the most tested and reviewed products by agencies around the world.
Pesticides have been around for 60-plus years and not one case of cancer has been proven to be caused by the occasional use by homeowners.
Health Canada continues to monitor and evaluate all pesticides used in Canada and there are no pesticides that are known or probable carcinogens registered for use in Canada. Groups such as CAPE, Canadian Cancer Society, Wildsight, Suzuki Foundation and Sierra Club continue to press the government to implement a ban on “cosmetic” pesticides based on weak studies and reports. When pushed for any detail they claim the “precautionary principle” should be used which allows them to evade answering the question of which products they want banned.
The average taxpayer in B.C. is not going to take the time to read any studies or polls; they will usually follow along with the latest headline which is usually sensational and makes good conversation.
Individuals like Jean Cottam (see letter in last week’s Observer) add no positive, credible or constructive value to the pesticide debate.
The B.C. government needs to ignore the sensational lobbyists and focus on credible documented science to make responsible decisions on the future of pesticides in B.C.
Paul Visentin
