CropLife Canada expresses disapproval of proposed regulations on neonics

CropLife Canada released a statement last week expressing disappointment with the Ontario government’s actions in proposed regulations on neonics.

The proposed regulations would dramatically reduce the use of neonic pesticides. They would reduce neonicotinoid-treated corn and soybean seeds by 80 percent over the next two years. The regulations are being proposed because scientific studies have linked neonics to high death rates in honeybees, as well as harmful effects on birds, butterflies, bumblebees and earthworms.

“While the government calls this an aspirational target, we call it a ban,” said Ted Menzies, president and CEO of the trade association. “There is absolutely no scientific evidence to justify this high-handed move. This will hurt family farms and small business in Ontario. The negative environmental and broader economic impacts will also be significant.”

Without access to neonicotinoid seed treatments, farmers will have to abandon farming practices that have showed environmental benefits, including improved soul health and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, according to CropLife.

“Ontario’s agricultural community has fought valiantly to have a reasoned discussion with the Government of Ontario," Menzies said. "Unfortunately, this government seems to have little regard for the work Ontario farmers do to help sustainably feed an increasingly hungry world.”