Premier ready to ban glyphosate if link found to mystery brain illness
Premier Susan Holt of New Brunswick has stated that her government would consider banning the herbicide glyphosate if a new investigation reveals a potential link to a mysterious brain illness that a neurologist in Moncton claims to be tracking. The province has initiated a fresh investigation into the numerous cases of this illness, citing the fear it has instilled in many New Brunswickers as a reason to address the issue.
Holt, in an interview with CBC News, expressed the concern of New Brunswickers regarding the potential effects of glyphosate and the alarming neurological illness. She emphasized the importance of understanding the impact of the chemical and taking necessary steps to eliminate exposure if a connection is established. However, Holt noted that the notion of banning glyphosate is still hypothetical as conclusive scientific evidence linking it to the illness is lacking.
Glyphosate is commonly used in agriculture and industrial forestry operations in the province. Despite being a topic of debate for over a decade, activists have primarily focused on its use in the forestry sector. A study conducted by the Canadian Forest Service in 2023 found minimal traces of glyphosate in the environment, with concentrations well below safety thresholds for human health.
Chris Edge, the lead researcher of the study, highlighted that glyphosate binds to soil and sediment, making it unlikely to reach water sources. He also mentioned that levels of glyphosate in vegetation decrease significantly after application, posing minimal risk to wildlife. Dr. Alier Marrero, a neurologist, suggested a potential link between glyphosate and blue-green algae blooms, but Edge’s research found no significant presence of glyphosate in rivers to support this claim.
One of Marrero’s patients, Sarah Nesbitt, believes that glyphosate, along with other environmental factors, contributed to her illness. Nesbitt, who resides in Steeves Mountain near Moncton, experienced symptoms after aerial forestry spraying in her area. She commended the provincial investigation for addressing the concerns raised by affected individuals.
The largest forestry company in the province, J.D. Irving Ltd., has defended the use of glyphosate as an effective method for vegetation management. Andrew Willett, the company’s director of science, emphasized the importance of finding alternatives but acknowledged the challenges in doing so.
Premier Holt assured that glyphosate is subject to stringent regulations and certifications, and the government could consider additional restrictions on its usage. She clarified that her previous comments regarding lobbying efforts were not directed at J.D. Irving Ltd. but rather the manufacturers of the herbicide who engage with Health Canada for regulatory approvals.
The ongoing investigation aims to collect patient data to determine if there is a common cause for the neurological illness. Health Minister Dr. John Dornan highlighted the need for a comprehensive review of the data before drawing definitive conclusions. The government remains committed to addressing the concerns raised by New Brunswickers and ensuring the safety of its residents.
