In order to slow the rising death rate of bees, the Parti Québécois (PQ) on Saturday suggested banning neonicotinoid pesticides and glyphosate, two substances toxic to these insects.

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“Each year there is concern and lament about the increasing number of honey bees and native bees dying; the Parti Québécois therefore intends to act resolutely to protect bees by banning, within the first 100 days of its mandate, neonicotinoid pesticides and glyphosate,” said Paul St Pierre Plamondon in a press release.

In addition to the impact that chemicals can have on bee colonies, the PQ is particularly concerned about a parasite that is particularly harmful to colonies, the varroa destructor.

“We are at the point where we sometimes have to import bees; this is absolute nonsense! The solution therefore also lies in supporting beekeepers; we join our voice to theirs in asking that they be granted emergency aid of $12 million which will be used, above all, to support research on the varroa destructor and to increase the number of bees throughout Quebec", said his side claimed the spokesperson of the Parti Québécois for agriculture and food, Méganne Perry Mélançon.

The party is also committed to supporting all initiatives aimed at preserving the swarms. “We are committed to supporting all projects going in this direction, whether in urban or rural areas; among other things, we will reimburse half of the costs related to the purchase and operation of a hive,” added the MNA for Gaspé.