Donna Hansen pledges bill on pesticides

Perth-Wellington NDP Candidate promises action on cosmetic pesticide use

July 16, 2007

Stratford - Perth-Wellington’s NDP candidate, Donna Hansen, announced today that when elected on October 10th she plans to introduce a private member’s bill to ban the use of pesticides for cosmetic purposes in private homes and public spaces. This has been a hot button issue in Stratford in recent weeks and Ms. Hansen wants to add her voice to the growing number expressing concern over the use of these dangerous chemicals. “We know now the serious effect these chemicals have on our environment and our health and it is time for some regulation into the use of these cancer causing pesticides for non-essential purposes. Environmental policies and health are inextricably linked and with cancer rates (and their associated costs) soaring, I feel it is time for the provincial government to step in,” said Ms. Hansen. “While I understand and sympathize with those wanting a green lawn, the health of our children and grandchildren and the detrimental effect it has on our soil and water must take precedence.”

Ms. Hansen’s bill would mirror a similar federal motion introduced a year ago by Jack Layton. “Perhaps if all levels of governments can come together, we can finally see some action on this issue of such importance to the health of our communities,” Donna Hansen said.