Dunedin City Council parks and reserves team leader Martin Thompson yesterday confirmed endosulfan had been used at the Caledonian and the University Oval three times in the last two
years.
Greens health spokeswoman Sue Kedgley said yesterday that New Zealand was the only country in the world that sprayed Endosulfan on sports fields.
The insecticide could remain in the soil for up to six years, and any skin, mouth or hand contact with the soil could cause harm.
"Endosulfan is a highly toxic insecticide which affects peoples hormonal system, and is linked to breast cancer, endometriosis, male breast enlargement and delayed sexual maturity.
"It can cause birth defects, and is linked to epilepsy, autism, cerebral palsy, lowered IQ, and Parkinsons disease.''
But Local Government New Zealand has leapt to the defence of its members. President Lawrence Yule said yesterday council staff understood health and safety issues.
"They only use products that are allowed in this country and that are fit for the purpose they are
made for. Council staff also follow any instructions and conditions applicable to chemical products.''
Endosulfan is being reassessed by the Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMA ) which called for public submissions on the continued use of the insecticide in June, following the imposition of tighter restrictions or withdrawal of endosulfan from the market in Australia, the United States and Europe.
Mr Thompson said yesterday endosulfan was used to kill earthworms, which left "casts'' – the earth worms ejected on to the surface of turf.
The council did not intend to stop using the insecticide, unless ERMA changed its rules.