Manitoba's cosmetic pesticide ban may be reviewed, says Sustainable Development minister

Sustainable Development Minister Cathy Cox said she is disappointed with the results of a CBC News investigation which found six out of nine of retailers sold pesticides in contravention of the province's two-year-old cosmetic pesticide ban.

• Restricted pesticides easy to buy in Winnipeg despite ban, I-Team finds

But when asked if the cosmetic pesticide ban legislation is smart in the first place, she opened the door to a review.

"I think we need to listen to Manitobans and maybe, perhaps review the legislation to ensure it is in best interest of Manitobans," said Cox "We want to listen to them. We will consult with them and look forward to meeting with AMM and other stakeholders in that process."

On Tuesday, the Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) said the ban has resulted in a weed boom that is costing municipalities more time and money to keep weeds under control because permitted pesticides are more expensive.

• Manitoba pesticide ban needs provincial review, municipalities say

While Cox would not commit to whether a review would mean loosening regulations, Sustainable Development critic Rob Altemeyer said his party is ready should that happen.

"If the government is thinking of weakening our legislation then we will gladly have that debate because it is clear that cosmetic pesticides are a public concern—as well they should be. There are a lot of scientific reasons to support the legislation as we brought it in," said Altermeyer.

Rules need to be followed

Cox noted her department will be hosting town halls to ensure retailers are educated about the sale of cosmetic pesticides.

"It is in the legislation and we need to ensure people are educated and perhaps enforce that more," said Cox.

Cox underlined her concern for the health and safety of all Manitobans and her commitment to upholding the law.

"We want to make sure retailers are following all the rules and regulations," said Cox.