Overview
- The Canadian Food Inspection Agency said the proposed amendments to the Health of Animals Regulations are not in force and it will pause publication until the changes are better understood and feedback is considered.
- Alberta Agriculture Minister RJ Sigurdson urged direct engagement with producers and said he has raised the province’s concerns with federal Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald.
- Alberta Beef Producers asked the CFIA to halt the process for more consultation, stating support for strong traceability that is workable and not unduly burdensome for more than 18,000 producers it represents.
- Reporting on the draft indicates possible requirements for a provincial premises identification number to purchase tags, along with reporting of animal identification, movements, and arrivals.
- CFIA said eventual regulations would include transition periods, including a one-year window before implementation and a graduated enforcement approach, with guidance and support for regulated parties.