Bill C-648 (Historical)

Warning Labels for Radio Apparatus Act

An Act respecting the prevention of potential health risks from radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation

This enactment makes it an offence to sell radio apparatus for general public use without a warning label that cautions the user of potential health risks of exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields associated with the use of this apparatus. The enactment also empowers the Minister of Industry to make regulations respecting the wording of the information to be printed on these warning labels, as well as the positioning, printing and dimensions of the labels. It also empowers the Minister to make regulations respecting the dissemination of information respecting the safe use of radio apparatus and providing for their sampling, testing, inspection and analysis.

Electricity Meters

[Alex Atamanenko, NDP, British Columbia Southern Interior, BC]

Mr. Speaker, there is growing evidence that wireless technology may be detrimental to our health and that the current Safety Code 6 is outdated. In this regard, I would like to thank my colleague from Oakville for introducing Bill C-648, which would require health warning labels on wireless devices. This is a logical first step.

I am also pleased to see that the health committee is taking the time to study this issue. Unfortunately, instead of applying the precautionary principle, various jurisdictions across North America have been ramming wireless smart meters down our throats. A number of people are sensitive to electromagnetic radiation or have other health concerns and have refused this technology.

BC Hydro charges a punitive opt-out fee of $32.40 per month. Several Slocan Valley residents who rejected this technology have gone through the winter with their electricity disconnected. This is completely unacceptable. The very least that the B.C. government could do would be to adopt the more reasonable Quebec model of a $15 opt-out fee and a monthly charge of $5.

B.C. residents deserve better.

Telecommunications

[Terence Young, Conservative, Oakville, ON]

Mr. Speaker, the world is waking up to the potential health risks of electromagnetic radiation from cellular phones, Wi-Fi, baby monitors, iPads, and other tablets.

France banned Wi-Fi in daycare centres and elementary schools and, for older children, teachers must turn off Wi-Fi when it is not being used for teaching. The Israeli Knesset has ordered radiation testing in all Israeli schools, banned Wi-Fi from preschools and kindergartens, and restricted its use to one hour a day for students up to Grade 3. Taiwanese lawmakers have banned the use of electronic devices for children under two altogether, and parents who allow older children to use iPads and smart phones face fines.

Oakville-based Canadians 4 Safe Technology is on the Hill today with cancer expert Dr. Anthony Miller to address the potential harms from wireless radiation.

Manufacturers' safety warnings are hidden in fine print in tiny booklets that most users never see. My private members' bill, Bill C-648, would make sure that Canadians can see the safety warnings they deserve to see so that they can use wireless devices safely.