Government of Canada Proposes Improved Reporting Process for New Chemicals

OTTAWA – November 1, 2004 – The Government of Canada has proposed an updated, user-friendly process for businesses to report any new substances that they may plan to manufacture domestically or to import from other countries.

The proposed revisions to the New Substance Notification Regulations will continue to ensure that all new substances in Canada are carefully assessed for their potential impact on the environment and human health in the country. The Government of Canada proposed the revisions in response to consultations with Canadian businesses.

The simpler process will give businesses a clear idea of the actions required when reporting new substances. The proposed revisions will also separate living organisms from chemicals and polymers in order to simplify access for businesses involved in these sectors.

“These proposed changes demonstrate the Government of Canada’s commitment to deliver proactive protection for the health and environment of Canadians,” said the Honourable Stéphane Dion, Minister of the Environment. Besides helping the Government to monitor chemicals that could be introduced to the country, these proposed revisions will help businesses to save both time and money and to improve their competitive edge in the marketplace.”

“The proposed regulations will increase the relevance of information about new substances and will improve health and environmental protection,” noted the Honourable Ujjal Dosanjh, Minister of Health. Each year, the Government of Canada receives approximately 900 notifications from businesses wishing to manufacture or import new substances to Canada.

Comments concerning the proposed Regulations will be accepted until December 29^th, 2004, by contacting:

Notification and Client Services Division
New Substances Branch
Risk Assessment Directorate
Environment Canada
Place Vincent Massey, 14^th Floor
Gatineau QC K1A 0H3

Telephone: (800) 567-1999 (Toll Free in Canada)
(819) 953-7156 (Outside of Canada)
Fax: (819) 953-7155
E-mail: nsn-infoline@ec.gc.ca

The final Regulations are expected to be published early in 2005.

For further information :

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