A subcommittee of the provincial Environmental Advisory Council is seeking public input on the use and regulation of pesticides in Prince Edward Island.
The Environmental Advisory Council is appointed under the PEI Environmental Protection Act to advise the minister responsible on issues of environmental concern. Minister of Environment and Energy Jamie Ballem said his predecessor, Minister Chester Gillan, asked the council to form a subcommittee to meet with interested groups and the general public to discuss pesticide use and regulation.
"Government has been looking at making changes to the Pesticides Control Act and regulations, however, we want to hear from Islanders before making any decisions," said Minister Ballem. "We recognize that some people have concerns about the use of pesticides, whether they are cosmetic, agricultural or commercial, and we want to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to share their views."
The subcommittee is co-chaired by Sherra Profit, a Summerside lawyer, and potato producer Elmer MacDonald of Augustine Cove. Other members are Stan Campbell, president of the Federation of Prince Edward Island Municipalities, and retired teacher Rudy Croken of Kensington. Over the past two months, the subcommittee has been meeting with groups with an interest in the issue of pesticide use and regulation including product vendors, licensed applicators, representatives of the agriculture, fisheries and tourism industries, municipalities, and environment and public health groups. As the next step in the consultation process, four public meetings will be held over the next month: October 29 at the Culinary Institute of Canada in Charlottetown; November 5 at the Whim Inn in Pooles Corner; November 12 at Westisle Composite High School in Elmsdale; and November 13 at the Silver Fox Curling and Yacht Club in Summerside.
"We want to hear from the general public to ensure we get a well-rounded view of the situation," said Ms. Profit. "We encourage Islanders to attend a meeting in their area. They are welcome to make a formal presentation or simply join in the discussion."
The subcommittee will report to the Minister of Environment and Energy by the end of the year, identifying issues associated with pesticide use and regulation, and making recommendations on amendments to the Pesticides Control Act and regulations.
Those who would like to make a formal presentation at one of the public meetings are asked to register a minimum of two days in advance by calling (902) 368-5205. Individuals unable to attend a public meeting may also send written comments to the Department of Environment and Energy, Environmental Advisory Council Pesticides Subcommittee, 11 Kent Street, PO Box 2000, Charlottetown, PEI, C1A 7N8.