"Ontario to ban use of pesticides"

I think they need to ban the use for golf courses, as well.

TORONTO - Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty is expected to use Earth Day today to introduce legislation banning the cosmetic use of pesticides across the province.

McGuinty promised a ban in the last election but he is expected to go one step farther today by prohibiting not only the use but the sale of pesticides for cosmetic purposes.

"There is a lot of consciousness being raised about environmental health issues and I think accordingly this is a really exciting step forward," Minister of Health George Smitherman said Monday.

The new legislation would apply to lawns, gardens, parks and schoolyards but will not apply to agriculture, according to the province.

Pesticides needed to address public health issues such as the West Nile virus will also be exempt from legislation.

Golf courses will also be exempt from the new rules but will be required to develop plans to limit the environmental impact of pesticides, the province said.

Environment Minister John Gerretsen said the proposed legislation has received "tremendous support" during public consultations with 90 per cent of submissions in favour of a ban.