This time of year sees the beginning of the mosquito onslaught in our area of beautiful PEI. 

Over the past few years I have discovered the compound Vectobac is an effective organic mosquito control product that targets only mosquito and black fly larvae, and which can be safely applied to ponds and streams without harming other insects, fish or animals. This product is quite expensive and is most cheaply purchased through Cardigan Feed at a cost of approximately $140 for 18 kg. 

A government-issued certificate is required to purchase the product from Cardigan Feed. Previously, this certificate was issued upon successful completion of a written test based upon the user’s manual for the product Vectobac. However, I have recently discovered the written test has been revised - the new test is more extensive and includes the use of many more deadly pesticides such as Malathion. Further research has revealed this new test is based upon material in two manuals which also must be purchased from government. 

Once the Vectobac is purchased, a government permit is required authorizing the use of the product in a specific area.

The costs now involved in becoming authorized to purchase and use the product Vectobac are as follows: Two manuals $52.50, certificate $78.75 - valid for five years and permit $52.50 - valid for one year. Total bureaucratic costs $183.75. With the addition of the expense of the product itself, the total cost of purchasing and using the 18 kg bag is approximately $ $330 with taxes. 

I can’t believe the new requirements and added costs are anything but a money grab on the part of the government. People like me are attempting to control a recognized scourge over our landscape, utilizing an effective, environmentally friendly natural product, and we are suddenly burdened with a frustrating intrusion of bureaucratic paper requirements resulting in an  exorbitant personal cost.

I do not consider that, given its proven record as an environmentally friendly product, there is any requirement for a government certificate to purchase, or government permit to utilize the product Vectobac. I can buy it off the shelf from the hardware store with requirement for neither certificate nor permit, although the cost is exorbitant - $30 for 200 grams. It would almost appear by permitting such an expensive purchase in the local store, the new government requirements force people who want to properly use Vectobac to follow the new procedures and give the $330 to the government instead – that is if they can pass the test involving the use of numerous deadly chemicals they would never consider touching. 

I don’t need or want a permit to spread chemicals like Malathion around my property. 

I have written to my MLA, Charlie McGeoghegan, expressing my views and requesting he investigate the matter, but so far have received no acknowledgement of my letter. I am therefore writing to you in the hope your readers will join me in attempting to convince government to eliminate the requirement for certificates/permits in the case of  Vectobac. 

Government won’t or can’t control mosquitoes - at least they can get out of the way of those of us willing to invest our own  time and energy,  utilizing a safe, environmentally friendly control agent to make our island a more pleasant place to live.

Sandy Kerr,

Gladstone