(Ottawa) An independent science adviser has resigned from a Health Canada committee on pesticide stewardship over concerns about a lack of transparency and scientific oversight.
The Dr Bruce Lanphear, professor of health sciences at Simon Fraser University, resigned as co-chair of Health Canada’s Scientific Advisory Committee on Pest Control Products on June 27.
In his three-page letter of resignation, he says he has little or no confidence the committee can help Health Canada’s pesticide directorate become more transparent or ensure Canadians are protected from toxic pesticides.
The committee provides independent scientific advice to Health Canada on the health and environmental risks of pesticides and makes assessments for new products.
In the letter, Lanphear says he has had difficulty getting some data and responses from Health Canada staff regarding controversial products and how the department monitors exposure to toxic pesticides.
He argues that the way Health Canada regulates pesticides is outdated and calls for a complete overhaul.