Request for an update or timeline on the implementation of Recommendation 9 of the Standing Committee on Health’s 2015 report, Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Radiation and the Health of Canadians

Petition: 526

Issue(s): Compliance and enforcement, Federal-provincial relations, Governance, Human/environmental health, Science and technology

Petitioner(s): A Canadian organization

Petitioner location(s): Innisfil, Ontario

Date received: 21 January 2025

Status: Completed—Response(s) to petition received

Summary: The petition draws attention to the Standing Committee on Health’s 2015 parliamentary report, Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Radiation and the Health of Canadians, and references statements by the Minister of Health in the government response that was tabled in Parliament on 6 October 2016. The petition raises concerns about the increase of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation in schools and homes. The petition inquires about the government’s timeline for developing an awareness campaign aimed at reducing the risks related to radiofrequency exposure as referenced in recommendation 9 of the report. 

The petition asks the Minister of Health and the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Industry to outline the actions taken by the Government of Canada to educate families and schools on radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation and to promote safer technology and digital wellness practices that minimize exposure in environments like homes and schools. In addition, the petition asks the ministers whether any additional messaging has been provided on their websites and whether the federal government will collaborate with provincial governments to develop public health guidelines on this matter.

The petition asks the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities what measures are being implemented to ensure that people with environmental sensitivities, including illnesses and injuries related to radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation, have equitable access to safe and inclusive public working and learning environments. The petition further asks which department is responsible for fostering policies regarding safe technology practices and accommodations that protect vulnerable children at home and in public.

Federal departments/organizations responsible for reply: Employment and Social Development Canada; Health Canada; Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada; Public Health Agency of Canada