These amendments will empower the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to implement the National Aquatic Animal Health Programme. This science-based program addresses finfish, mollusc and crustacean diseases that pose serious economic or aquatic conservation risks.
These proposed changes are in line with the existing terrestrial animal health programme.
They will ensure Canada meets the standards set by the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) for preventing disease spread from the trade of live animals or high-risk products.
Extensive consultations with the federal, provincial and territorial governments, industry and stakeholders have occurred through the Aquatic Animal Health Committee. During the past three years, several face-to-face consultations have been held throughout the country on the proposed regulatory changes.
The comment period will run until March 7, 2010. For additional information on the proposed amendments, visit: http://www.canadagazette.gc.ca .
Comments Sought On Animal Health Regulations
CANADA - The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the country's aquatic animal resources and is seeking comments on the proposed amendments to the Health of Animals Regulations that were published in Canada Gazette, Part 1, on 19 December, 2009.
