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CANADA INVITES COMMENTS ON PROPOSED IMPORT POLICIES FOR UNITED STATES FEEDER CATTLE

Ottawa, December 15, 2003 - The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) today released a discussion paper on the importation of U.S. feeder cattle. The Agency is reviewing existing import requirements for these animals and is seeking comments on possible policy changes as part of this process.

Current import requirements are intended to prevent the establishment of two animal diseases in Canada - bluetongue and anaplasmosis. Import requirements are regularly reviewed to ensure that restrictions are appropriate and reflect current science and risk assessments, as are all of Canada’s disease control measures.

Consistent with the Government’s commitment to an open and inclusive process, the CFIA is inviting interested parties to submit scientifically supported comments. All stakeholders are encouraged to participate in this consultative process, as changes to current policy may be of interest to several livestock and wildlife sectors.

The discussion paper, related risk assessments, economic analyses, animal disease information and comment submission instructions are available through the CFIA’s Website, http://www.inspection.gc.ca.   Information is also available by contacting Ms. Marlene Longtin, (613) 225-2342 extension 4190.

Interested parties have until February 15, 2004 to submit comments.

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