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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 1997 Week 1 Hansard (20 February) . . Page.. 318 ..

The answer (continuing):

3. The hazards related to the use of chemicals differ for each chemical. For the hazardous chemicals the manufacturers and approval authorities such as the National Health and Medical Research Council, determine and publish directions for the use of the chemicals. These directions are followed by this Government. If a significant hazard exists, the public are excluded from the affected area.

The least toxic and environmentally safest suitable pesticide is used. Only registered pesticides are used, and the chosen pesticides are specifically registered for the pest being controlled and the situation where it is to be used. Pesticides which persist in the environment are avoided, with the exception that in certain weed control situations, wherein low toxicity herbicides with considerable residual activity may be used to control weeds. Where possible, pesticides which do not act against beneficial organisms in the environment are selected.

The process of applying chemicals is also controlled. Spray drift is minimised, and work is not undertaken when members of the public are in the near vicinity.

4. The Government does acknowledge a duty to inform schools about chemical distribution operations. School Principals are notified in advance of any intended fertilising program or pesticide spraying procedure. Under most circumstances these operations are carried out during school holidays If exceptional circumstances make it necessary to carry out these works out of vacation periods, then the procedure is undertaken during periods when the children are not in the grounds, such as after hours.

The public are notified of pesticide applications by means of the clear signage on the spray vehicles and appliances, and by the harmless red indicator dye used in the pesticide mix. I am sure that all Canberrans have noted the areas sprayed pink, and most know that the pink colour indicates pesticide sprays. Most chemical distribution tasks are weather dependant, and cannot be undertaken when the conditions are adverse.

5. The Government does acknowledge that some people may have sensitivities to chemicals. If a person with a sensitivity makes the details known to the relevant land managing sections of the Department of Urban Services, the Department will endeavour to inform the person of programs in their vicinity that may affect them. The Department has a responsibility to maintain the community assets for all the community.

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