Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Science Branch
Office of Biotechnology

Federal Government Agrees on New Regulatory Framework for Biotechnology

OTTAWA, Jan. 11, 1993 – Federal regulatory departments have agreed on principles for a more efficient and effective regulatory framework for Canadian biotechnology.

These principles will ensure the practical benefits of biotechnology products and processes are balanced against the need to protect the environment, human health and safety. They will be the basis of a federal regulatory framework for biotechnology that:

• maintains Canada’s high standards for the protection of the health of workers, the general public and the environment;
• uses existing legislation and regulatory institutions to clarify responsibilities and avoid duplication;
• continues to develop clear guidelines for evaluating products of biotechnology which are in harmony with national priorities and international standards;
• provides for a sound scientific database on which to assess risk and evaluate products;
• ensures both the development and enforcement of Canadian biotechnology regulations are open and include consultation; and
• contributes to the prosperity and well-being of Canadians by fostering a favourable climate for investment, development and adoption of a sustainable Canadian biotechnology products and processes.

“The Canadian agri-food industry must continue to realize the benefits of biotechnology in order to hone its competitive edge and keep pace with other countries, notably Japan and the United States,” said Mr. Bill McKnight, Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources, who made the announcement on behalf of Agriculture Minister Charlie Mayer. “At the same time, this new technology must be developed within a credible framework that puts the priority on health, public safety and the environment” Environment Minister Jean Charest stated his intention to work with his colleagues to ensure appropriate environmental assessments are conducted.

The goal of the regulatory framework is to minimize environmental risks while foster competitiveness through timely introduction of biotechnology products to the marketplace.

Industry, Science and Technology Canada will encourage the application of biotechnology to maintain Canadian competitiveness in national and international markets.

"By developing a sound regulatory framework that coordinates national priorities and international standards, we can help assure Canada’s continued international competitiveness in biotechnology.,” Science Minister Tom Hockin said.

The federal departments involved in biotechnology have adopted this framework for regulating biotechnology and support is as a means of ensuring that biotech products undergo thorough environmental and human safety assessment in a timely and cost-effective manner.

Although biotechnology has been used for centuries, with applications in the brewing and baking industries, for example, new developments in genetic modification have allowed breakthroughs such as the transfer of genes between species. Recent discoveries in this field offer potential benefits in a wide range of fields including medicine, food production, forestry, energy and environmental protection. A regulatory framework will enable the biotechnology industry to maximize opportunities while minimizing concerns about human health and safety and the environment.