Playground Timber Must Be Investigated

“Alternative timber treatments are needed for use in our playgrounds,” said New Zealand First Family Affairs spokesperson Barbara Stewart, after the American Government confirmed that there is a risk of cancer for children who use playgrounds made with arsenic treated timber.

“Parents believe they are doing the best for their children by going to a playground for exercise and fresh air. Little do they know it is potentially dangerous.

“The European Union, Canada and Japan have banned the use of arsenic treated timber because of health risks associated with its use.

“Now America has confirmed the dangers as well.

“How much more evidence do we need to start taking some action and look at alternative treatments for timber used in playgrounds?

“I am calling on the Ministry of Health to investigate this issue. We cannot knowingly expose our future generations to serious health risks such as cancer,” said Mrs Stewart.

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