By Dori Modney

Health Canada releases decisions on specific pesticides and mitigation measures

Apr 1, 2021 | 6:08 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB. –– Following science-based assessments and broad public consultation, that included more than 47,000 comments and new information, Health Canada has released decisions on the risks to aquatic insects from two neonicotinoid pesticides.

Neonicotinoids are among a group of pesticides used in agriculture to protect crops from various insects. They’re also used for other purposes, including killing insects in homes, and controlling fleas on pets. Neonicotinoid pesticides have been used in agriculture on a wide variety of crops since the 1990s.

In Canada, there are three main neonicotinoids currently approved for agricultural use: imidacloprid, clothianidin, and thiamethoxam.

On Wednesday, March 31, 2021, Health Canada published two special review decisions regarding the risks of clothianidin and thiamethoxam.

In order to protect aquatic insects, Health Canada will be updating usage of the insecticides and introducing additional mitigation measures and restrictions on some of the uses that remain registered.

Court proceedings

Not guilty verdict in Byron Bear murder case

7h ago

Armed robbery

Suspected robber caught after returning to the scene

12h ago

THIS IS A PLEA FOR HELP!

Mayor in Loon Lake requests support in wake of criminal activity, church fire

Oct 01, 2024

New information collected during the special reviews determined that some uses do not pose a risk to aquatic insects, while other uses do pose risks.

The revised conditions of use must be reflected on all product labels no later than 24 months from today. A small number of uses for which there are no suitable alternatives will continue for an additional 24 months.

As well, adjustments to the use of pesticides will be in accordance with the Health Canada’s Policy on Cancellations and Amendments Following Re-evaluation and Special Review.

When used according to new mitigation measures, clothianidin and thiamethoxam will not pose additional risks to aquatic insects. To be approved for sale in Canada, all pesticides must undergo a rigorous science-based review.

Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency is responsible for pesticide regulation in Canada.

Additional information can on pesticides can be found on the Health Canada Pesticide Ap.