Strategic Approach Obtaining scientific certainties cannot always be done in a timely manner Timelines: medium and lon

1. Different Visions of the Precautionary Principle Applied to Public Health Carolina MONARDES, Thérèse LEROUX, Centre de recherche en droit public, Université de Montréal • Institutional Approach • Action proportionate to potential risks • Timelines: precocious action « The application of "precaution", "the precautionary principle" or "the precautionary approach" recognizes that the absence of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing decisions where there is a risk of serious or irreversible harm. » • Strategic Approach • Obtaining scientific certainties cannot always be done in a timely manner • Timelines: medium and long term objectives • Core elements of the precautionary principle : • Lack of full scientific certainty • Threats of serious or irreversible damage • Anticipatory action • Cautionary Approach • Strict measures • Favours risk eradication • Tactic Approach • Temporary and revisable measures • Timelines: short and medium term objectives 1) GOVERNMENT OF CANADA,A Framework for the Application of Precaution in Science-based Decision Making about Risk, 2003, 13 p. 2) Olivier GODARD, « Le principe de précaution comme norme de l’action publique, ou la proportionnalité en question », (2003) 54(6) Revue économique 1245