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From: Irene Gallagher (Division Office) [mailto:IGallagher@ONTARIO.CANCER.CA]
Sent: Thursday, September 06, 2007 4:40 PM
To: joel@whitemoose.ca
Subject: Re: The Canadian Cancer Society's position on the non-essential exposure to glyphosate and 2,4-D

Dear Mr. Theriault,
Thank you for your August 30, 2007 e-mail enquiry regarding the Canadian Cancer Society’s position on glyphosate and 2, 4-D.
The Society strongly believes that Canadians should not be exposed to known or probable cancer-causing substances at home, at work, or in their environment. Exposure should be reduced if it cannot be eliminated. Wherever possible, safer alternatives should be used.
We support the principle of Community Right to Know. We believe people have the right to know what substances in the environment they are being exposed to and how to help them make informed decisions about their health. In particular, we believe people have the right to know if they are being exposed to substances that are known or probable carcinogens. 
In the case of pesticides, the Society does not support the ornamental use of pesticides. Some substances used in pesticides are known, probably or possible carcinogens. The ornamental use of pesticides has no countervailing health benefit and has the potential to cause harm. The Society is calling for a 100% ban on the use of pesticides on private lawns and gardens as well as public parks, recreational facilities and golf courses for the purpose of enhancing their appearance.

We are aware of concerns about the potential carcinogenicity of glyphosate and 2,4-D, which are found in some pesticides.
The Society is committed to providing accurate and evidence-based information. We continue to closely monitor research on the link between pesticides and cancer.
  
Please do not hesitate to contact me should you have any further questions regarding the Society’s position on the use of ornamental pesticides at 800 268-8874 x 2231.
Kindest Regards,
Irene Gallagher
Manager, Public Issues
Canadian Cancer Society, Ontario Division
1639 Yonge Street
Toronto, Ontario
M4T 2W6
Tel: (416) 488-5402 press "1" ext. 2231
Fax: (416) 488-2872
Email: igallagher@ontario.cancer.ca
Every step makes a difference. Join us this fall for the Canadian Cancer Society Taking Steps Against Breast Cancer, a non-competitive, five to 10 kilometre walk taking place in communities across Ontario to raise money for important breast cancer research. Register today. Visit www.cancer.ca or call 1 888 939-3333.