A week of activities designed to focus the nation’s attention on the safe use of
chemicals is now being observed across Antigua and Barbuda.
Organized by the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Controls Board, the week runs
from October 16-20 under the theme the “Safe use and management of chemicals
is our collective responsibility.”
Head of the Board, Dr. Linroy Christian said the week’s activities are being held to
bring public awareness to the safe use of chemicals, to inform the public of the
various legislative actions regarding the use of chemicals, to notify the public of
the existence of the board and its role, and generally to inform the public of the
need for protection of human health and the environment from the dangers
associated with the mismanagement of chemicals.
One of the activities of the week is a stakeholders’ consultation planned for today
(Wednesday, October 18) on the topic: ‘The role of stakeholders in the
implementation and enforcement of chemical legislation.’ The consultation takes
place at the Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality Training Institute.
On Thursday, members of the board will visit several schools where they will
address students on the topic; ‘How can the youth be involved?’
In an address to mark the week’s activities, Agriculture Minister, E.P. Chet Greene
emphasized that chemicals have many benefits for humankind through their use, to
increase food production in agriculture and the multiple applications in the health
sector. Notwithstanding their many benefits, he stated, it is important for society
and its environment.
“Hence, there is an ever-present need for the Government of Antigua and Barbuda
to direct increasing attention to risk management actions to protect our citizens and
our precious environment from the threats posed by toxic chemicals,” he indicated.
Greene said the Antigua and Barbuda government continues to demonstrate its
commitment to the development of a stronger regulatory regime, through the
recent adoption of several legislative amendments. “I also recognize the
establishment of the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Inspectorate, which allows for
improved accountability and traceability of chemical products of concern
throughout their lifecycle such that we may reduce their impact on our society,” he
declared.
