The glyphosate becomes a problem again for the town of Gualeguaychú, Entre Ríos. Last week, the local Deliberative Council approved by majority the repeal of the ordinance that prohibited its use, storage, and transportation.
The repeal gathered 8 supports (7 from Together for Entre Ríos and 1 from Freedom Advances) and 4 against (3 from More for Entre Ríos and one from Freedom Advances), while one councilor was absent.
From the Municipality, they stated that they repealed article 1st of the Ordinance, as its unconstitutionality was declared by the Justice. This was because limits were set above those imposed by the provincial regulations in its version interpreted by the Superior Court of Justice (STJ).
Glyphosate in Gualeguaychú: the repealed initiative
The initiative was one of the main environmental battles led by the former mayor Martín Piaggio, in his fight against agrochemicals. It was approved in 2018.
This led to strong clashes between the ruling party and the opposition over the repeal of the ordinance banning the use of glyphosate.
Even during the project’s discussion, there were shouts and criticisms from the people present. Among them was the family of Antonella González, the girl who died of cancer years ago, and representatives of Agmer, a union involved in cases of fumigation in rural schools.
“At the school where I worked, recently retired, just across the street, they sprayed for a long time,” explained Estela Lemes, a retired teacher to the radio station AM 750.
“Year after year, when fumigation occurred, I reported it to the Environmental Secretary of the province, because we are not within the municipal jurisdiction,” recounted one of the promoters of the fight against agro-contaminants.
“It was a long battle until it was proven that my body was contaminated with glyphosate as a result of these fumigations. It led to an illness for which I was under treatment for a long time,” she added.
Do you already know our YouTube channel? Subscribe!
