Parliamentary Committee Could Slow Down Chemicals Management in Canada
OTTAWA, Ontario – The Canadian Paint and Coatings Association (CPCA) is reporting that the Standing Committee on the Environment and Sustainable Development tabled a report in Canada’s House of Commons to amend the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA, 1999). If accepted by the government, the report’s recommendations would mean a complete overhaul of the Chemicals Management Plan (CMP) in Canada even though the CMP has been widely applauded by governments around the world. In fact, several countries have adopted or will be adopting a similar approach to chemical assessment including the United States, Brazil and Australia.
Canada’s approach to chemicals management over the past 10 years is an evidenced-based assessment of chemicals in commerce using the latest scientific data to determine a chemical’s potential risk to human health and the environment. Once such a determination is made, risk management measures are taken, such as regulations, to control that risk. “The CMP approach is completely in line with the Liberal Government’s focus on evidenced-based decisions with respect to public policy and programs,” commented Gary LeRoux, President and CEO of the CPCA. He further added that, “Even though the CMP process of assessing chemicals is onerous and costly for industry, our member companies believe it is the right thing to do to protect Canadians while delivering highly performing products for such things as controlling mold, preventing corrosion and preserving assets, all which they have come to expect.”