Health Canada Scientist, Margaret Haydon, Wins Whistle-blower Award over rBGH

CBC Newsworld Online, WebPosted 18jun99

OTTAWA - A scientist at Health Canada has won a whistle-blowing award for speaking out about a drug-approval process she called flawed.

Margaret Haydon is one of six scientists in the department's bureau of veterinary drugs who have gone public with their concerns.

Her testimony shocked senators who were examining the bovine growth hormone, and lead to the drug's rejection for use in Canada.

The British Columbia Freedom of Information and Privacy Association says Haydon has helped stimulate a national debate about the safety of our food.

A "delighted" Haydon said she was surprised after receiving the nomination and shocked when she won.

The shy and soft-spoken scientist was one of the first people to express concerns about the bovine growth hormone.

Haydon also told senators about managers who are ignoring her safety concerns and approving other growth hormones for livestock.

Health Canada rejects Haydon's allegations. Still, she insists her department isn't doing enough to ensure meat is safe for Canadians to eat.

"I was just doing my job as a public servant," Haydon told CBC News.

"And when I have concerns I feel that the information should be brought out and the public should know what's happening."

Health Canada has slapped her with a gag order, which she is fighting in federal court.