CERTAIN TOYS considered toxic will soon be safer as the federal government decided today to enact a bill first introduced by Skeena-Bulkley Valley NDP MP Nathan Cullen in 2006.
Health Canada announced today it will act on Cullen's recommendations to restrict toxic phthalates in the manufacturing of toys.
Starting in June, six chemicals, known as phthalates, will be banned from a range of items designed or likely to be put in the mouths of children under four-years-old, announced federal Health Minister Leona Aglukkaq today, Jan. 18.
“It is very satisfying, both as a Parliamentarian, and as a new father, to see the Government finally get it right,” said Cullen. “They have a checkered history on consumer safety – and there still is much to be done.”
In May 2006, Cullen introduced Private Members Bill C-307, calling for a ban on the toxic phthalates in children’s products.
“This issue has always been close to my heart. We put a tremendous amount of work into our bill, consulting experts, negotiating with stakeholders and building support in the House of Commons.”
Over the next two years, Cullen shepherded the bill through the legislative process, winning three unanimous votes in the House of Commons.
“It is very rewarding to finally see this come to fruition," said Cullen.