Health Canada has now completed its re-evaluation of the Neonicotinoid Imidacloprid, which is used in pest control products.
Scott Kirby of Health Canada revealed the findings earlier yesterday.
"Today Health Canada has published its draft risk assessment for public comment. The assessment proposes the current uses of Imidacloprid are not sustainable and that levels being found in waterways and aquatic environments are harmful to aquatic insects such as mayflies and midges which are important food sources for birds, fish, and animals. To date there has been no indication that neonicotinoids poses a risk to human health," Kirby said.
Kirby also explained the plan moving forward.
"To address the risks identified, health Canada has also published a purposed risk management plan for public comment , which includes a three-year phase out of agriculture uses of Imidacloprid in order to address risks to aquatic insects. In some cases where there are no alternative pest control products available a longer phase out of 5-years is being proposed," he said.
Consultations are on-going.