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;