Implementation of Enhanced Animal Health Protection from BSE

WHEREAS new Ministry of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada regulations will come into effect in 2007, in an effort to help eliminate bovine spongiform encephalopathy BSE, or mad cow disease, from Canada; AND WHEREAS the implementation of the new regulations will significantly impact many individuals, businesses and industries both financially and in changes to operations; AND WHEREAS a more comprehensive approach is required to ensure that the methodologies employed in the elimination of BSE from Canada are effective, practical and financially viable: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM and FCM lobby the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, requesting: 1. That local governments, industries, ranchers and all stakeholder groups affected by the new regulations be adequately consulted prior to implementation; 2. That there be increased cooperation between all levels of government to ensure that there is consistent interpretation of the regulations; 3. That sufficient and adequate financial assistance be provided in a timely manner to allow those impacted to achieve compliance with the new regulations; and 4. That the implementation date of the new regulations be extended until such time as adequate facilities and methodologies that meet the new standards are in place, and sufficient public education has occurred.