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25-06 - CFIA Accountability
BFO has increased communication with CFIA and meets with them twice a year, which allows us to bring forward concerns from our members to ensure they are addressed. During our most recent meeting with CFIA, BFO brought forward the concerns raised in the resolution.
CFIA noted they report to the Minister of Health, work with the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, and are responsible for the administration and enforcement of 10 acts and their regulations that include food safety, animal health and plant protection in Canada. A full list of the acts and regulations they have oversight of can be found here. They also suggested we forward along regulatory interpretive guidance and resources for the humane transport of animals designed to help stakeholders interpret and implement the regulations. They provide clarification and examples on what is required of those involved in the transport of animals.
Through these meetings, CFIA has asked BFO to capture more relevant information from our members during the filing of complaints, as specific and relevant information is key to finding actionable solutions to these concerns.
BFO is in the process of finalizing a form producers can fill out to provide more context to their complaint and concerns. The form will be accessible by our members on the BFO website. Through this form, BFO will be able to track the problem areas within the province. The form will provide BFO with areas of concern, and allow for practical solutions and items we can discuss with CFIA during our meetings.
CFIA let us know that if a producer is comfortable addressing a particular concern themselves, they can inform the CFIA inspector they would like to speak to their supervisor and the issue will be escalated to them. If a producer is not comfortable doing that, CFIA has a complaint process outlined on their website for individuals to follow. The process ensures all parties have the information they need to find a solution to the outstanding issue.
Ensuring a fair and transparent inspection process continues to be a priority for the BFO. If there are any ongoing concerns from your area, BFO staff are more than willing to discuss those issues provided specific information is brought forward allowing for actionable solutions.