TNAG-2500-FCO40-3638-Relations-between-Hong-Kong-and-international-organisations-1992 — Page 19

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The International Code of Conduct on the Distribution and Use of

Pesticides

10.

The above subject was considered on the basis of the Secretariat Document No. RAPA/APPPC/89/8 introduced by Ms. Cecilia Gaston, Project Coordinator. It was noted that the Code was adopted by all FAO member nations during the 23rd session of the FAO Conference in 1985. However the Commission noted that in this region a number of developing countries lack appropriate pesticide legislation and adequate enforcement mechanism which had led to unacceptable situations such as availability of highly toxic pesticides and often in improperly labelled containers and supply of inferior quality pesticides. In order to implement the Code further a UN Regional Project was started in this region in 1988. The overall objective is to ensure that pesticides are used only under good agricultural practices, in a safe, efficient and environmentally sound manner leading to a reduction in food losses while safeguarding man and his environment. This is done through provisions of technical assistance and training to participating countries. It is noted that seminars and workshops will be organized under project on subjects such as pesticide residue on food, toxicology data assessment, pesticide specification and quality control and pesticide labelling.

11.

It is further noted that the Prior Inform Consent (PIC) under article 9 of the Code had been discussed by the 24th Conference of FAO and a scheme of operation for PIC would be expected at the next FAO Conference.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

12.

It is recognized that careless, excessive and non-judicious use of pesticides had led to several of the well-established ill effects of calendar sprayings. It is considered that as in the case of rice, the IPM approach in vegetables is an

vegetables is an effective strategy. With the involvement of farmers and proper consideration of their knowledge, attitude and practices, high and safe production of vegetables can be attained by adopting IPM. The Commission observed that the IPM approach in vegetables is at varying stages of development in different countries of the Region and there is ample scope for sharing the successful experiences through cooperative arrangements. The Commission recommended that high priority should be given to projects and programmes on IPM of vegetables.

Establishment of Standing Committee and Working Groups under APPPC

13.

In order to facilitate the development and implementation of the recommendations made by the Commission it is considered desirable to establish Standing Committees responsible for specific aspects of plant protection. Considering the priority areas of interest of member countries as well as recent developments in plant protection three Standing Committees on plant quarantine, IPM, and pesticides were established under the chairmanship of New Zealand, Malaysia and Philippines respectively. It is further noted that the Standing Committee may establish various Working Groups.