For immediate release:
January 30, 2008

PC Environment Critic asks: Where do you stand on a pesticide ban?
Barrett encourages public to have their say on pesticide proposal

Guelph— Opposition Environment Critic Toby Barrett took time out of Finance Committee pre-budget hearings today to encourage people to take advantage of an opportunity to help direct provincial pesticide policy.

“People across Haldimand and Norfolk – and indeed across the province – have another couple of weeks to tell the government how we should move forward on the issue of pesticide regulation in Ontario,” stated Barrett. “I urge those interested to check out the Environmental Bill of Rights posting on the Government’s proposal to ban ‘cosmetic’ pesticide use and have their say.”

The proposal, known as EBR Registry Number 010-2248 (online at: http://www.ebr.gov.on.ca/) is open for public comment for a period of 30 days that commenced Jan. 18 and concludes Feb. 17, 2008.

This current posting is looking for feedback on a number of issues related to a ban, including:
1. Determining the Scope of the Ban
2. Sale of Cosmetic Pesticides
3. Exemptions/Restrictions for agriculture and managed forests
4. Exemptions for Golf Courses
5. Timing

“When the government introduces its legislation, it will have far reaching implications for industry, municipalities, and the public alike,” Barrett said. “People have an opportunity now to get their views and concerns on the record and help direct our law-makers.”

Barrett also noted that people are always welcome to contact his Simcoe office to express their opinion or request more information on proposed legislation.

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For more information, please contact MPP Toby Barrett at: (519) 428-0446 or 1-800-903-8629