Non-renewal of Syngenta diquat pesticide

28.3.2018

Question for written answer E-001913-18
to the Commission
Rule 130
Patrick Le Hyaric (GUE/NGL)

A November 2015 study by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) concluded that Syngenta’s diquat pesticide is dangerous. The study raised serious concerns about the hormonal disruption that this pesticide can cause in humans and animals, as well as the associated high levels of exposure. It echoes other studies with similar conclusions carried out by the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and Newcastle University.

While the license for this pesticide expired in 2012, it is re-authorised on a temporary basis, the next deadline being 30 June 2018.

After setting a decision for October 2016 and then December 2016, the Commission did not decide. This was due to intense lobbying by Syngenta criticising the EFSA’s methodology.

Does the Commission agree that Syngenta’s supported letters have influenced this failure to make a decision?

Will the Commission, as it did for glyphosate, follow the recommendations of the EFSA, which, in this case, recommends banning the diquat?