Manitoba Politicians "Missing in Action" on the "Poison Berries" Issue.

by Larry Powell

Back in May, I reported (on P in P, the Roblin Review and Neepawa Press), that wild berries and medicinal plants in central Manitoba had been found by First Nations researchers to not only be declining in abundance, but to be in very sickly condition, as well. While lab tests proved inconclusive, the researchers remain convinced through observation and experience that farm chemicals used on field crops on and near the reserves, are likely contributing factors.

I asked three Manitoba cabinet ministers to comment. (While aboriginal people come under federal jurisdiction, conventional farmers who operate in the vicinity of reserves, do not.) 

Today, more than three months later, not one of these politicians has seen fit to get back to me!

Those I invited to comment were; 

Ron Kostyshyn, Minister of Agriculture, Food & Rural Initiatives,

(Please also read: "PinP Declares Minister of Agriculture a Liar") 

Minister of Health, Healthy Living and Seniors, Sharon Blady 

and the Minister of Aboriginal and Northern Affairs, Eric Robinson.
What do you think? 

Do these Government of Manitoba cabinet ministers have any duty or responsibility to look into this issue, given that First Nations people have gathered wild plants either for food or medicine for centuries? Why not "weigh in" in the comments section, below?

(Photos courtesy of the Government of Manitoba.)