CHEMICAL TRESPASS: GOVERNMENT ‘SPRAY’ OF EXCUSES

South Australians whose homes are threatened by chemical spray drift have been "fogged off" with a spray of unhelpful excuses and inaction from the State Government.

Democrats Shadow Minister for Primary Industries, Ian Gilfillan says, "Chemical trespass is affecting an increasing number of South Australians in the city and country where primary industries meet residential areas, schools, wetlands and organic farms."

"Despite this, the Government has sat on its hands since consulting industry and the community about this crucial issue more than two years ago."

"Most horticulturists find it necessary to spray for pests or weeds, and fine mist spray will inevitably drift", Mr Gilfillan says. "However the Government has done nothing to regulate chemical use and protect nearby horitcultural properties and residents." Ministers have said:

• "There is no requirement for users of agricultural chemicals to minimise off-target application of sprays" - Primary Industries and Resources Minister, Rob Kerin, 12/9/2000
• "There is no clear evidence of a risk to health" [from chemical spraying, no matter how close to people or houses] – Human Services Minister Dean Brown, 9/10/2000.

"Neither local councils nor the EPA can act to limit spraying until and unless harm is proved. That is, until after the environment, vulnerable crops and or human health are damaged, and the damage linked back to chemical use.

• A new offence of ‘chemical trespass’ is created.
• The EPA is directed to consult with the horticulture industry, to produce mandatory policies on chemical spraying, and be given the power to ensure compliance.
• Adjoining property owners are given notice of when, where, and what types of sprays are to be used.