Canadian Cancer Society applauds provincial moves on pesticides
By Contributor
The Canadian Cancer Society B.C. and Yukon today congratulated Premier Christy Clark and Opposition Leader Adrian Dix for agreeing to put forward legislation that would protect the health of children and families by banning the sale and use of cosmetic pesticides in British Columbia.
“This is a big step forward for cancer prevention in our province,” said Cathy Adair, Vice President Cancer Control, Canadian Cancer Society B.C. and Yukon. “We applaud the government and opposition for their non-partisan approach taken on this important matter.”
In addition to welcoming this non-partisan approach to a ban on cosmetic pesticides, the Society is encouraging the government to introduce effective legislation quickly.
Recognizing the significant amount of public consultation that has already taken place on this issue a recent opinion poll has confirmed that more than 70 per cent of British Columbians favour a ban on cosmetic pesticide use.
The Society submitted a legislative proposal to the government last year and is encouraged by the private members bill that was introduced yesterday in the Legislature.
More than 35 BC municipalities and three Canadian provinces have already banned the use of cosmetic pesticides. The legislated ban being proposed does not include the use of pesticides for agricultural or forestry purposes.
“Our Society is ready to take part and support this non-partisan process in the coming days and weeks,” says Adair. “We look forward to working with both parties to ensure effective and timely cosmetic pesticide legislation is put forward before summer to protect children and families.”
The Society has sent a letter today to Premier Clark and the Opposition Leader offering to ensure legislation can be introduced in the current session.
This article is a press release from the Canadian Cancer Society.
