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Dairy Trade Sector Review - Discussion Paper

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Measurement Canada’s mission is accomplished in the sectors in which it has intervened traditionally, through several key programs such as:

• calibration of measurement standards,
• mandatory approval of device types intended to be used in trade,
• mandatory initial inspection and certification of individual devices before they are placed in service,
• re-verification and monitoring of trade devices,
• verification of net quantity content and labelling of commodities,
• investigation and resolution of disputes and complaints related to measurement.

Historically, these programs have been implemented exclusively by Measurement Canada and have provided equity and accuracy in the traditional trade sectors. In an effort to meet the needs of an expanding economy, Measurement Canada has established a strategic direction that is designed to optimize the use of its resources to effectively fulfill its mission and mandate.

As part of its strategic direction, Measurement Canada will continue to:

• establish rules and requirements for trade metrology,
• resolve complaints and disputes,
• monitor the marketplace, and
• where necessary, take action to ensure appropriate levels of compliance.

Measurement Canada will assess the use of alternate service delivery mechanisms such as accreditation or licensing of third party organizations to deliver services determined as necessary by the stakeholders such as:

• calibration of measurement standards
• device approvals
• initial certification of devices
• re-inspections or periodic re-verifications of devices

The primary purpose of the Dairy Trade Sector Review (DTSR) is to establish an appropriate level of intervention to ensure accuracy in trade measurement. This will be an opportunity for stakeholders, especially vulnerable parties, to express their views on the need for Measurement Canada intervention and to provide input into the decision making process.

It is our intention to create the necessary checks and balances in the Dairy Trade Sector that will assure a reasonable degree of marketplace confidence between the stakeholders, at an appropriate level of direct intervention by Measurement Canada. Adequate controls must exist within the sector to enable Measurement Canada to monitor, on a continual or periodic basis, that the stakeholders are satisfied.

The purpose of this report is to explain the Dairy Trade Sector Review project, to summarize the initial comments obtained to date from clients on this project and to propose a level of intervention for the sector that will serve as a platform for further discussion.