Agriculture Ministry to sanction companies for unauthorized aerial pesticide spraying

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Agriculture has warned that companies conducting aerial pesticide spraying outside authorized hours in Duarte province could face suspension. This measure follows reports of poisoning cases in schools due to pesticide exposure.

In response, Agriculture Minister Limber Cruz directed Rosa Lazala, Director of Plant Health, to visit the province with a team of experts. The Plant Health Department will assign additional technicians to oversee pesticide preparation and regulate spraying schedules to prevent health risks.

Toxicology specialist Dr. Rosario Gómez confirmed that affected children had pre-existing conditions such as asthma and hypertension, which worsened due to chemical exposure. The meeting to address the issue included officials from Agriculture, Health, and Education, as well as environmental authorities, legal representatives, and community leaders.