Bill C-30 legalizes use of dangerous pesticides

The federal government now has the power to approve the use of banned pesticides.

 

Yet another federal omnibus bill by Carney’s Liberals received Royal Assent on June 18. Titled the “Spring Economic Update 2026 Implementation Act”, the Bill allows federal authority to overrule Canada’s Pest Control Products Act and permits overriding all laws under the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) authority.

 

Any pesticide can now be used if the State feels it’s in the interest of economic or food security. The legislation lacks any definition or clarity on those interests and instead leaves the decision entirely in the hands of the ruling class.

 

The legislation has been universally denounced by environmental and health organizations. The Cabinet can now overrule even the health minister if a request for use of a banned or unsafe pesticide has been denied. This approval allows blanket use for up to six years.

 

We know that it is not laws and regulations creating the affordability crisis. Rather than limiting corporate grocery giant profits or addressing the lack of critical food infrastructure, the State is using the opportunity to extend its powers with further consequences shouldered by the working class and ecosystems.

 

Migrant farm workers will be disproportionately harmed by this deregulation. These workers already face racist immigration regimes and conditions of extreme exploitation. They will now also be directly exposed to banned pesticides.

 

The pesticide lobby industry under CropLifeis the only group applauding the change to drive economic growth and attract investment.

 

This measure is in lockstep with Carney’s cuts to CFIA workers, undermining food safety to protect the profits of the capitalists.