To the editor;
Two hundred years ago, the gypsy moth was introduced to the U.S. So, why now is the Ministry [of Forests] so afraid of an epidemic here, or that the U.S. will reject certain plants for fear of "Cross boundary" contamination?
The Ministry explained the need to spray was in order to protect blueberry fields, trees and ornamental shrubs, and said it would not be harmful to humans, pets and wildlife, although people with respiratory problems or sensitive skin could be affected. This spray, Foray 48B, was approved by a regulatory body who said standards were met. They claimed to have done their due diligence in warning the public.
So why are so many people in this area saying they received no notification of spraying or an explanation of its safety?
Last Thursday, Friday and Saturday were sprayed for the second time. There was no warning spraying would take three days. By Friday afternoon I was feeling very sick; five days later I'm still feeling sick, poisoned and in more pain.
THe Ministry said to stay indoors for five hours (I had been indoors for five hours). Does that mean that workers could get a paid day off? Many people have been affected. They also said that the residue could be easily washed off. It took three hours to clean my car.
How are we to deal with the next spraying, May 10 to 13? I don't look forward to living off Gravol and more pain killers for three days.
Please talk to your local MLA and the MInistry of Forestry (1-866-917-5999) and insist the spraying be stopped.
The ministry said, "Life is tough for a bug." What about us?
Susan Simmons, Kelly Taylor and Lynne Hiebert
Cloverdale
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