The proposed legislation clarifies the requirements and refines the legal language of the Livestock Identification and Commerce Act (LICA) regarding security interest disclosure and payment for the sale of livestock. It also adds inspection authority over livestock market facilities and provides for regulation-making authority for facilities licensed under the Animal Health Act.
It is part of Premier Ed Stelmach’s plan to secure Alberta’s future by building communities, greening our growth and creating opportunity.
“A straight-forward transition for the livestock industry is essential when LICA is proclaimed,” said George Groeneveld, Minister of Agriculture and Food. “This amendment Act is an important step towards streamlining the original legislation and easing the transition. Our intent remains to facilitate fair commerce, increase the protection available for livestock buyers and promote the integrity of marketing practices within the industry.”
The LICA, developed with extensive industry consultation to address industry concerns and issues, consolidates and revises three existing acts – the Brand Act, the Livestock Identification and Brand Inspection Act and the Livestock and Livestock Products Act. LICA received Royal Assent on May 24, 2006 and will come into force upon proclamation. Upon proclamation, the livestock industry will see such changes as mandatory livestock security interest disclosures, greater protection for personal property in livestock, streamlined documentation, and enhanced consumer protection.
Non-profit making
Alberta Agriculture and Food and Livestock Identification Services (LIS) jointly developed LICA and the Livestock Commerce and Animal Inspection Statutes Amendment Act. LIS is a not-for-profit company established in 1998 as the delegated authority for provincial livestock identification and inspection legislation. LIS is governed by a board of directors comprised of livestock industry representatives.