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PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO SEEDS REGULATIONS

OTTAWA, October 18, 2006 - The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is proposing changes to the Seeds Regulations. These regulations govern the testing, inspection, quality and sale of seeds to facilitate the availability of pure, effective seed for Canadian consumers and export markets.

The proposed amendments were posted in Canada Gazette, Part I, on September 16, 2006. Comments can be submitted on the amendments for 75 calendar days from this date.

The proposed amendments to the regulations include the following:

• Update of the scientific names of species listed in Schedules I, II and III;
• Clarification of terminology and the intent of the legislation;
• Updates to better reflect current industry practices;
• Removal of fractional standards (e.g. 0.1 per kg changes to 0 per kg);
• Small changes to germination, disease and purity standards for some species;
• Changes to grade names for forage and turf mixtures; and
• Additions to, or movement of, species within the grade tables.

For more information on the proposed amendments or to find out how to submit comments, please visit the CFIA Web site at www.inspection.gc.ca or call 1 800 442-2342.

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Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Media relations: (613) 228-6682