Letter to the Editor Asbestos ban criticized

The Asbestos Institute has demonstrated clearly beyond any reasonable doubt that the data and reasons supporting the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed ban on asbestos in the U.S., is out of date, incorrect and grossly weighted for the purpose of rationalizing its empirical conclusions.

In the circumstances, it is shocking that the EPA, having shown up to be incompetent and biased in this matter, continues to have the unconscionable gall to gaily undertake to review, at leisure, its faulted data and conclusions.

Considering that the U.S. Government was among 125 countries which in 1986 unanimously endorsed a report of The International Labour Organization entitled Safety in the use of Asbestos, recommending controlled use rather than product bans, it would seem remarkable indeed if the U.S. was not somewhat embarrassed by the scientific triviality of the EPA.

In fact, further delay in withdrawing this harmful and irresponsible proposal threatens to undermine the credibility and good faith of our neighbor to the south in matters affecting future trade negotiations. M. F. Nicholson, Oakville, Ont.