Discussions on Rodenticide Ban and Pest Control Policies

During the General Government Committee meeting on October 16, 2023, Janice Freund presented concerns regarding the dangers of rodenticides. Freund provided an overview of the chemicals involved and their inhumane effects, citing that the City of Pickering had banned rodenticides on city property in June 2023. She concluded her presentation by outlining signs of toxicity and responded to questions from committee members.

Allison Hansen, Campaign Director for Rodenticide Free Ontario, also addressed the committee, emphasizing the dangers of rodenticides. Hansen discussed the mission of Rodenticide Free Ontario and highlighted the primary and secondary ingestion effects of these chemicals, noting their impact on human health. She requested the committee to ban the sale and use of all rodenticides, implement prevention measures, and enhance community education on the issue.

The committee passed Resolution # GG-160-23, acknowledging that rodenticide products are dangerous, inhumane, and ineffective. The resolution noted that rodenticides pose serious threats to wildlife and the environment and that they are ineffective in controlling long-term rodent populations. The resolution called for the adoption of a policy banning the use of rodenticides on all municipally owned properties, effective immediately, and directed staff to communicate this policy to residents and businesses, including information on humane alternatives.

The committee also referred Resolution # GG-161-23 to staff for further reporting at the December 4, 2023, meeting.