Daily News Archive
From March 31, 2006                                                                                                        

Brandon City, Canada Council Approves First Pesticide Ban
(Beyond Pesticides, March 31, 2006) A new bylaw was unanimously approved this week, by the Brandon City, Canada Council that will restrict the use of pesticides on public property and ban cosmetic use of the chemicals near the homes of people who suffer from adverse health reactions. The Brandon Area Environmental Council originally brought a proposal for a complete ban on pesticides to the city council approximately one year ago. The new bylaw will also restrict the use of pesticides in public parks, schools, day cares, senior citizens’ complexes and hospitals.

According to The Brandon Sun, residents with documented chemical sensitivities can now legally prevent others from spraying pesticides near their homes. A registry is being created by the city for people who suffer from pesticide-related health problems. In order to qualify for the registry, citizens will need a note from their doctor affirming their health issues. Once registered, it will then be prohibited for anyone to apply cosmetic pesticides within 30 meters of a registered person’s home. Violation of the new by law will result in fines ranging from $50 to $1,000.

According to the city’s public works manager Rick Bailey, there are exceptions. Pesticides use will be allowed in cases where human health is at risk. The bylaw will also allow the Mannitoba Health Department to use pesticides to deal with insect-borne diseases like West Nile virus or other threats to human health. Mr. Bailey said, “They have the final authority.”

While other Canadian municipalities such as Toronto and Halifax have created similar rules, Brandon’s bylaw is the first in Manitoba. Brandon’s council president, Bill Patton said, “it’s significant progress.” The Brandon bylaw will take effect April 1.