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Section II: Analysis of Program Activities by Strategic Outcome

2.1 How the Agency Plans and Reports

In accordance with TBS’ MRRS policy, the CFIA’s planning and reporting framework is based on strategic outcomes, a PAA and an associated governance framework. The PAA is aligned with the GoC outcomes and takes into consideration the impact of several factors including the global, national and economic environment; GoC priorities; CFIA strategic risks; its human and financial resource capacity; and outcomes of its past performance and related lessons learned.

This report highlights key accomplishments and reports on progress made in advancing the plans and priorities identified in the Agency’s 2008-09 RPP. Under each strategic outcome and program activity, performance is reported on ongoing activitites, risk mitigation strategies and special initiatives, with a focus on expected results for Canadians.

Section 2.2 of this report describes, where possible, performance information, including highlights, challenges and lessons learned, and expected results for each strategic outcome measured against targets using compliance and other relevant performance indicators.

2.1.1 Performance Targets

Performance targets are qualitative or quantitative goals set by the Agency that provide a basis for measuring the performance of regulated parties and the CFIA toward achieving expected results. The targets in this report are for critical program areas and are based on either historical averages of actual performance or on the expected results of effective programming (e.g., rate of industry compliance with regulatory standards). The Agency has assessed the extent to which performance has met or exceeded established targets and provided analysis when performance has fallen below targets.

When interpreting performance information, it is important to consider that the CFIA uses various approaches to assess compliance ranging from monitoring activities to targeted interventions. Targets for programs that monitor activities are set differently than for programs that focus on specific areas of non-compliance. In terms of compliance rates, the CFIA considers performance +/- 1 per cent to be considered met.

2.1.2 Assessment of Compliance

Given the complexity and inherent variability of the agriculture, agri-food, forestry and fisheries production, processing, and distribution sectors, the approach to assessing compliance varies across commodity groups. The CFIA monitors and promotes compliance by conducting inspections, audits, product sampling, and verifications, using a risk-based approach which focuses effort on the areas of highest risk. For example, the CFIA focuses its efforts on systems, processes, and facilities that have the most direct effect on the safety of food. The resulting compliance rates indicate the extent to which regulated parties have adhered to requirements specified in the federal acts and regulations. A compliance rate of less than 100 per cent means that some proportion of the facilities or products inspected by the CFIA have failed to meet requirements. The CFIA recognizes that 100 per cent compliance across the full range of the Agency’s activities is virtually impossible to achieve. Moreover, the compliance trends year over year are important indicators and can suggest systemic issues, broad environmental shifts or can identify when a target is inappropriate. For detailed information on the assessment of compliance, see Section 3.3.4.

2.1.3 Fair and Reliable Performance Reporting

The CFIA is committed to providing fair and reliable performance information. Since performance data in the Agency is collected and managed using different methods and procedures, in 2006-07, the Agency conducted a review of certain data systems and the management controls in place to ensure data quality. In 2008-09, as part of this long-term process to improve the overall performance measurement and reporting process, the Agency initiated the Enterprise and Operational Reporting (EOR) system, which is a component of the Performance Management and Reporting Solution (PMRS) project. The primary objective of the PMRS project is to deliver timely performance information that is easily accessible, robust, reliable, and well substantiated. The EOR contributes to this objective by extracting data from the various existing information systems and integrating it in a data warehouse such that it is organized and presented in a way that supports decision-making. The Agency will continue to develop the PMRS project and to examine other ways to improve data quality for performance reporting.

The table below shows the CFIA’s rating summary of data systems and process controls for the data used in this report.

Table 2-1: Overview of Data Systems and Process Controls Ratings¹³

Data Systems and Process Controls Rating	Definition	Number of Data Systems and Process Controls
Good	Has clearly defined policies and procedures in place	14
Reasonable	Has compensating controls in place to make up for lack of defined policies/procedures	2
Weak	Has no defined policies/procedures or compensating controls in place	0
Pending	Review of data system has not yet been completed	5
Not Assessed	Data system has not been reviewed	9

[D]

2.1.4 Auditor General’s Assessment of Performance Information

 

[D]

2.2 Performance by Strategic Outcomes

2.2.1 Strategic Outcome 1: Public health risks associated with the food supply and transmission of animal diseases to humans are minimized and managed

[D]

As a contributor to the GoC’s integrated approach to population health, the CFIA, in collaboration with federal partners and provincial, territorial and municipal governments, protects Canadians from preventable health risks related to foodborne and animal diseases potentially transmissible to humans. In carrying out activities toward the achievement of this strategic outcome, the Agency focused its efforts on the following two priorities:

• Enhancing regulatory compliance, with a focus on the safety of domestic and imported food; and
• Strengthening preparedness to mitigate and respond to animal and plant diseases and pests.

Program Activity Summary

Performance against plans and priorities is presented within the context of the following two program activities:

• Food Safety and Nutrition Risks; and
• Zoonotic Risks.

Work under these program activities is aimed at addressing the Foodborne Hazards and Zoonotic Outbreaks/Incidents corporate risk areas.¹⁴

2008-09 Actual Spending

Food Safety and Nutrition Risks

This program activity represents the highest priority for the Agency given its direct impact on the health and safety of Canadians. The success of the CFIA’s efforts are dependent on many factors, some of which are outside of the Agency’s direct control. For example, co-operation from federal, provincial, territorial (F/P/T)¹⁵ and municipal partners who provide oversight for health and who share responsibility for food safety, together with private sector organizations that grow, import, produce, process and distribute food, is needed to manage instances where food could pose risks for the overall health of Canadians.

The CFIA also needs to ensure that its compliance and enforcement processes are sufficiently robust to manage the new challenges associated with modern food production and processing systems. Additionally, the Agency has to remain abreast of all entry points where hazards that can affect human health may be introduced along the food continuum.

Performance Analysis

In the summer of 2008, the CFIA, in collaboration with federal and provincial health authorities, responded to a listeriosis outbreak linked to ready-to-eat meats produced at a Maple Leaf Foods establishment in Toronto, Ontario. The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) identified 57 confirmed cases of human illness and 22 deaths linked to this tragic outbreak. A review of the outbreak indicated the most probable cause was contamination of meat slicers used on ready-to-eat meat production lines in a federally-registered establishment. It was determined that meat residue deep inside the slicing mechanisms provided a breeding ground where the Listeria bacteria could grow.

In the early stages of the outbreak, there were communications challenges between all federal and provincial agencies and departments involved. These challenges were the result of the complex nature of roles and responsibilities within the area of food safety. However, as soon as illnesses were confirmed to be linked to a food source, the CFIA issued public warnings of recalls for all potentially-affected products. This recall was one of the largest in Canadian history with 192 products recalled and involving close to 30,000 distributors. At the plant where the meat was produced, the CFIA conducted a thorough investigation, oversaw the implementation of corrective measures and verified the resumption of safe operations. The Agency has, together with Health Canada (HC) and the PHAC, examined the events surrounding the listeriosis outbreak and published lessons learned from this review.

Immediately following the outbreak, the CFIA acted to put in place stronger food safety control measures to address the situation both in the specific plant and in ready-to-eat meat plants across the country. These included new directives to industry concerning requirements for the cleaning and disassembly of slicing equipment; enhancements to laboratory procedures, such as the development of more rapid screening methods; and new mandatory requirements (increased sample and environmental testing) to facilitate the earlier detection, reporting and control of Listeria risks by both government and industry. While these new measures have strengthened the food safety system, there is room for ongoing improvement, including assessing the federal food safety regulatory and legislative framework to ensure the Agency has the adequate authority to take necessary actions.

Also, recognizing the importance of coordination among the partners in food safety, the CFIA is working with the PHAC and other F/P/T partners to review and update the multi-jurisdictional Foodborne Illness Outbreak Response Protocol which outlines the cooperation and collaboration necessary among these partners to act quickly in the face of future foodborne outbreaks. Additionally, the Agency is contributing to HC’s review of its policy on Listeria in ready-to-eat foods and is looking at opportunities to expand these lessons learned to other pathogens in the food processing environment.

In 2008-09, the compliance rate for federally registered meat establishments was 95 per cent¹⁶, which is high but still below the target of 98 per cent. In a complex and dynamic environment such as a food processing establishment, it is essentially impossible to eliminate all risk of introducing potential foodborne pathogens into the food supply. In an ever changing environment, the conditions within an establishment can change frequently, resulting in differences in levels of compliance from one day to the next. As such, even a high level of compliance at the time of inspection cannot guarantee against the possibility of a foodborne illness outbreak during the year.

In addition to responding to the listeriosis outbreak and as part of its ongoing efforts to more effectively address food safety risks, the CFIA continued to advance a key inspection initiative, Meat Inspection-Continuous Improvements. Through reforms to animal and carcass inspection, oversight of meat processing and hygiene, and reporting and certification procedures, the CFIA placed increased focus on industry’s shared responsibility for meeting regulatory requirements and enhanced the Agency’s compliance and enforcement activities. Recognizing the need for modernized inspection approaches, the Agency completed the roll-out of the CVS across all federally-registered meat establishments. While implementation challenges with the CVS have been identified, ongoing improvements are underway.

The CFIA also implemented the Food Safety Research Plan to reduce analysis time and adopt more sensitive methodologies for detecting food-borne pathogens, resulting in better decision-making capabilities during food safety incidents. Additionally, in continuing to prepare for, and respond to, food safety threats and incidents, the Agency refined its process and criteria for activating emergency operation centres and mobilizing emergency response teams.

Public awareness remains a critical element in the effectiveness of Canada’s food safety system. The CFIA, working in partnership with other government departments and agencies and other key stakeholders, advanced education and outreach activities that provide the public and industry with information to make informed decisions to prevent food safety incidents. The Be Food Safe program, which forms part of the FCSAP, was designed to reduce the incidence of foodborne illness by raising awareness among consumers of safe food handling practices. The Agency also developed the Be Aware and Declare! campaign to mitigate the entry of plant, animal and foodborne pathogens by informing travellers of Canada’s import laws regarding food, plants and animals. Although these initiatives were successfully carried out, the Agency is aware that more needs to be done and is continuing its efforts in this area.

Performance Summary

The CFIA has taken steps to bolster its inspection workforce, improve and modernize inspection procedures, enhance capacity to predict and respond to emergencies and conduct education and outreach activities to promote public awareness of food safety and nutrition risks, thereby making progress in achieving its expected result that risks associated with food, including nutrition, are managed within acceptable limits.

The following table identifies the CFIA’s expected result, performance indicators and targets for this program activity, and reports 2008-09 performance against these expectations. For more detailed information, including results from previous reporting periods, refer to section 3.3.2 Summary of Performance Indicators.

Table 2–2: Summary of Performance: Food Safety and Nutrition Risks

Program Activity: Food Safety and Nutrition Risks¹⁷

Expected Result: Risks associated with food, including nutrition, are managed within acceptable limits
2008-09 Financial Resources ($ millions)			2008-09 Human Resources (FTEs)
Planned Spending	Total Authorities	Actual Spending	Planned	Actual	Difference
260.9	289.6	281.0	3,014	3,156	(142)
Variance Analysis
The variance between Planned Spending and Total Authorities is mainly due to funding received through Supplementary Estimates, funding received for collective bargaining and increased employee benefits plan requirements. Part of the variance between Total Authorities and Actual Spending is attributed to 2008-09 being the first year of implementation for the FCSAP program.

Performance Indicators	Targets	Performance Status18
Extent to which inspected federally-registered establishments comply with federal food safety requirements Data systems and process controls rating Meat: Pending All other sub-indicators:19 Good	≥ 98% compliance	Meat	95%	Not Met
		Fish and Seafood	99%	Met
		Processed Products	96%	Not Met
		Dairy	100%	Met
		Shell Egg	100%	Met
Performance Analysis: Meat In 2008-09, the CFIA implemented a more rigorous inspection regime including a new CVS, new enforcement procedures for meat, and stronger food safety control measures in ready-to-eat meat plants. As a result of the Agency’s continuous improvements, inspectors identified a higher number of non-compliance issues, resulting in marginally lower compliance rates as compared with previous years. As meat plants adjust to the more rigorous inspection approach, the compliance rate is expected to move back above the target level. Processed Products In 2008-09, the CFIA completed revisions to the Establishment Inspection Manual (EIM), providing more concise and clearer direction to inspectors, and implemented new policies regarding compliance requirements. As some establishments are still in the process of adapting to these new requirements, inspectors have identified a higher number of non-compliance issues, resulting in a slightly lower compliance level than in 2007-08. As establishments adjust to the new requirements, the Agency expects compliance rates to increase to meet target levels. Compliance Approaches and Methods: All sub-indicators use a monitoring approach for compliance, and compliance results are determined during the first follow-up visit that is conducted after the initial inspection. Three-year Trend Analysis: For the past three years, the Agency has continued to meet most of its performance targets for this indicator. As noted above, compliance rates for Meat decreased slightly in 2008-09 due to improved inspection procedures and compliance and enforcement policies. The trend for Processed Products has varied since 2006-07 due to procedural changes over the years, including requirements for additional elements to be noted as deficiencies and updates to the EIM.
Performance Indicators	Targets	Performance Status
Extent to which domestic and imported food products comply with federal chemical residue requirements Data systems and process controls rating Fish and Seafood: Reasonable All other sub-indicators: Good	≥ 95% compliance	Meat	97%	Met
		Fish and Seafood	96%	Met
		Fresh fruit and vegetables	97%	Met
		Processed Products	99%	Met
		Honey	76%	Not Met
		Shell Egg	97%	Met
		Dairy	98%	Met
Performance Analysis: All areas were above the compliance target except for Honey. This is due to the fact that bee calming agents are not currently regulated which means that the Food and Drugs Regulations have not prescribed a maximum residue level. When a maximum residue level has not been established, a default is set at an aggressive limit of 0.1 parts/million. This default limit resulted in the Honey program missing the compliance target; however, it is not indicative of a health risk. Efforts are underway with HC to establish a maximum limit for the residue level. Compliance Approaches and Methods: The Fish and Seafood sub-indicator uses monitoring and targeted and investigative approaches for assessing compliance, and compliance results are determined during the initial testing of food product samples. All other sub-indicators use the monitoring approach for compliance, and compliance results are determined during the initial testing of food and product samples. Three-year Trend Analysis: For the past three years, the Agency has continued to meet its targets and/or improve its results for all areas under this performance indicator except for Honey. In addition to the explanation provided above, the declining trend in compliance rates for Honey has been due to changes in the assessment criteria for butyric acid, a chemical used in bee repellants, and the implementation of a more sensitive testing methodology. Further, bee calming agents are known to occur naturally which contributes to the overall level of non-compliance.

Performance Indicators	Targets	Performance Status
Time taken to issue public warnings for Class I recalls Data systems and process controls rating Good	100% of public warnings for Class I recalls are issued within 24 hours of a recall decision	Met 99.55% The CFIA considers a target met if the performance result falls within +/- 1% of the target.
Performance Analysis: In 2008-09, further investigation of a single Class I recall determined that an additional press release was necessary to cover a previously unidentified vendor. Rather than counting the follow up press release as a new Class I recall, it was treated as an extension of the original recall. This placed the follow up press release outside of the 24 hour target timeframe, thereby lowering the performance result by 0.45 per cent. Three-year Trend Analysis: For the past three years, the Agency has met its target for this performance indicator.

Performance Indicators	Targets	Performance Status
Extent to which nutrition information on food products inspected is accurate. Data systems and process controls rating Not assessed	≥ 80% of food products inspected declare nutrition information which is accurate.	85%	Met

Performance Analysis: The CFIA met its assigned target and continues to work to maintain its results. In 2002, the Government introduced requirements for the labelling of most pre-packaged foods with a Nutrition Facts table so that consumers could compare foods and make informed food choices. Recognizing the impact on industry, a five-year transition period was put in place through amendments to the Food and Drug Regulations. Although the 2008-09 RPP stated that the CFIA would measure the extent to which food packaging inspected for nutrition labelling displays nutrition information and included indicator wording and an associated target to this effect, the transition period ended in December 2007. As a result of the now mandatory labelling requirements, the Agency has moved to verifying the extent to which nutrition information on food products inspected is accurate, and the wording of the performance indicator and target has therefore been changed20. Three-year Trend Analysis: For the past three years, the Agency has met its target for this performance indicator.

Additional Information: Moving Forward on Food Safety – Action on Listeria: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/fssa/movava/movavae.shtml CFIA Consumer Centre: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/fssa/concen/concene.shtml Food Recalls and Allergy Alerts: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/corpaffr/recarapp/recaltoce.shtml Food and Consumer Safety Action Plan: http://www.healthycanadians.ca/pr-rp/plan_e.html

Zoonotic Risks

Animals, both domestic and wild, can potentially transmit disease-causing agents to humans. These diseases are known as “zoonoses”. BSE, AI, H1NI in swine and strains of rabies are a few examples of diseases of animal origin that have the potential to affect public health. The CFIA focuses its work on detecting, managing and mitigating the spread of existing federally controlled zoonotic diseases and understanding, anticipating and preventing the spread of new zoonotic diseases. Increasingly interconnected markets and higher trade volumes have placed greater demands on the Agency’s inspection and certification efforts, posed higher risks to animal health and have led to higher risk of transmission of diseases to humans.

Performance Analysis

As part of its ongoing activities, the Agency has continued to conduct regular scanning of the literature to identify, analyze and share information related to potential animal disease threats and threats to Canada's food supply, food safety and public health. The Agency works with F/P/T partners and other national and international organizations such as the Canadian Animal Health Coalition, Canadian Animal Health Surveillance Network (CAHSN) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) to share scientific knowledge, establish collaborative approaches to common challenges and share best practices as they pertain to preparedness, disease mitigation and control. An information-sharing link has been established between the CAHSN and the U.S. Animal Health Laboratory Network as part of the Quadrilateral Laboratory Network group formed in 2008. The first meeting of Canada, the U.S., Australia and New Zealand was hosted by the National Centre for Foreign Animal Diseases (NCFAD) in Winnipeg in April 2008. The NCFAD collaborates on diagnostics with the National U.S. Animal Health Laboratory Network, with the goal of a future direct electronic link between the two organizations.

In 2008-09, the CFIA received approximately $65 million for BSE programming, which includes specified risk material removal, an enhanced feed ban, ongoing surveillance and import controls. In 2008, the Agency tested 48,808 samples for BSE, of which four were positive. No part of the confirmed BSE cases entered the human food supply or animal feed systems. The CAHSN has finalized a web based, stored, real time central data repository for BSE test results on a national basis, which merges test results from the provincial laboratories with test data from national laboratories. This information is accessible for domestic analysis and reporting to the OIE, and Canada has retained its “controlled risk”²¹ OIE designation.

The CFIA also continued to advance work under the Avian and Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Strategy, contributing to the design of, and participating in, an international exercise of the North American Plan for Avian and Pandemic Influenza. The Agency enhanced the Canadian Notifiable Avian Influenza Surveillance System (CanNAISS), which is designed to meet current OIE guidelines and new requirements from the European Union. CanNAISS testing will enable the CFIA and farmers to better identify risks and thus control potential disease spread.

Performance Summary

The CFIA has continued to advance its surveillance, detection and control activities, successfully responding to the AI outbreak in British Columbia in early 2009. The Agency also collaborated with partners to enhance program and regulatory frameworks, thereby making progress in achieving its expected result that risks of the transmission of animal diseases to humans are managed within acceptable limits.

The following table identifies the CFIA’s expected result, performance indicators and targets for this program activity, and reports 2008-09 performance against these expectations. For more detailed information, including results from previous reporting periods, refer to section 3.3.2 Summary of Performance Indicators.

Table 2–3: Summary of Performance: Zoonotic Risks

Program Activity: Zoonotic Risks²²

Expected Result: Risks of the transmission of animal diseases to humans are managed within acceptable limits
2008-09 Financial Resources ($ millions)			2008-09 Human Resources (FTEs)
Planned Spending	Total Authorities	Actual Spending	Planned	Actual	Difference
126.1	149.7	99.3	913	758	155
Variance Analysis
The variance between Planned Spending and Total Authorities is mainly due to an extension of funding received for the BSE program, funding received for collective bargaining and increased employee benefits plan requirements. The variance between Total Authorities and Actual Spending is attributed to the following: frozen allotments, reallocation to other program areas and the inclusion of expenditures within the Animal Health Risks and Production Systems program activity rather than in the Zoonotic Risks program activity.

Performance Indicators	Targets	Performance Status
Number of incidents of Avian Influenza that expand beyond the initial control zone Data systems and process controls rating Not assessed	No expansion of the disease beyond the initial control zone	Met
Performance Analysis: The CFIA met its assigned target and continues to work to maintain its results. Three-year Trend Analysis: As 2008-09 is the first year the Agency is reporting on this performance indicator, trend information is not available.
Additional Information: Avian Influenza programming: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/anima/disemala/avflu/avflue.shtml Animal diseases: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/anima/disemala/disemalae.shtml

Benefits for Canadians

Canadians are better protected from food safety and zoonotic risks through the CFIA’s continuous improvement processes and rapid response to food safety emergencies when they occur. Increased public education and awareness activities such as the Be Food Safe program and the Be Aware and Declare! campaign and greater transparency provided by the new Product of Canada and Made in Canada labelling requirements have ensured Canadians are provided with the valuable information they need to make more informed decisions about their food.

2.2.2 Strategic Outcome 2: A safe and sustainable plant and animal resource base

[D]

The CFIA’s programming is aimed at protecting Canada’s crops, forests, livestock, aquatic species and wildlife from regulated pests and diseases; preventing the introduction of undesirable or dangerous substances into human food or the environment through animal and plant production systems; and assessing the environmental sustainability and impact on biodiversity of new products derived through enabling technologies such as biotechnology. In 2008-09, the CFIA worked with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) on a number of cooperative activities including: portfolio cooperation relating to business risk management, research and policy/program development, delivery of the IAS Strategy and market access negotiations. In carrying out activities toward the achievement of this strategic outcome, the Agency focused its efforts on the following priority:

• Strengthening preparedness to mitigate and respond to animal and plant diseases and pests.

Program Activity Summary

Performance against plans and priorities is presented within the context of the following three program activities:

• Animal Health Risks and Production Systems;
• Plant Health Risks and Production Systems; and
• Biodiversity Protection.

Work under these program activities is aimed at addressing the Animal and Plant Pest Diseases and Science and Technology Capacity corporate risk areas.

2008-09 Actual Spending

Animal Health Risks and Production Systems

The CFIA’s programming plays an important role in minimizing and managing risk by protecting Canada’s animals (including livestock, aquatic species and wildlife) from regulated diseases that are prevalent in Canada; actively managing, containing and eradicating outbreaks that occur; and supporting preparedness to mitigate the entry and spread of new diseases. The CFIA’s programs are also focused on providing oversight for production inputs, such as feed, to verify that controls are in place to prevent the spread of animal diseases. Lastly, under the Health of Animals Act, the CFIA regulates animal transportation in Canada by setting standards of care that address the welfare of animals in transit. Higher international standards, the continuing evolution of science and technology and new production practices have increased demands on the Agency and are challenging its capacity to keep pace with emerging research and to minimize risks to animal health.

Performance Analysis

As part of the Growing Forward Framework Agreement signed by F/P/T governments in July, 2008, the CFIA undertook activities related to the strategic management plan for the National Agriculture and Food Traceability System (NAFTS). The NAFTS envisions a comprehensive legislative and regulatory infrastructure for livestock traceability in support of animal health and disease control, emergency management and market access. In 2008-09, the CFIA initiated an assessment of the legislative framework needed to enable a NAFTS and development of national traceability data and system interoperability standards and conducted preliminary work on the development of a national traceability portal through which data collected in many databases will be accessed through a single window.

The Agency continued its recruitment campaign for the Canadian Veterinary Reserve (CVR), bringing its total to 157 private sector veterinarians to assist governments in responding to animal health emergencies across Canada. The CVR supplements existing response capabilities of federal and provincial governments and provides Canada with additional flexibility to increase its surge capacity, expertise and rapid response capability. The Agency also completed a risk profiling exercise for Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) and, subsequently, developed a risk-based action plan as part of its emergency prevention, preparedness and response efforts.

In order to consolidate approaches to animal health risk management across governments, industry and academia, the CFIA undertook work related to a National Animal Health Strategy (NAHS). In 2008-09, the F/P/T Regulatory Assistant Deputy Minister (ADM) Committee refocused their efforts toward the development of a National Farmed Animal Health and Welfare Strategy. Phase I of this strategy was completed which included the definition of roles and responsibilities in order to advance production systems and disease control approaches.

Performance Summary

The CFIA has taken steps to improve animal disease surveillance, detection and control activities and continued to collaborate with partners and stakeholders to enhance program and regulatory frameworks. The Agency has continued to meet most of its performance targets, thereby making progress in achieving its expected result that risks to the animal resource base are managed within acceptable limits.

The following table identifies the CFIA’s expected result, performance indicators and targets for this program activity, and reports 2008-09 performance against these expectations. For more detailed information, including results from previous reporting periods, refer to section 3.3.2 Summary of Performance Indicators.

Table 2–4: Summary of Performance: Animal Health Risks and Production Systems

Program Activity: Animal Health Risks and Production Systems²³

Expected Result: Risks to the animal resource base are managed within acceptable limits
2008-09 Financial Resources ($ millions)			2008-09 Human Resources (FTEs)
Planned Spending	Total Authorities	Actual Spending	Planned	Actual	Difference
74.7	88.7	100.0	751	808	(57)
Variance Analysis
The difference between Planned Spending and Total Authorities is largely explained by increased statutory compensation, funding received for collective bargaining and increased employee benefits plan requirements. The variance between Total Authorities and Actual Spending is in part explained by the inclusion of expenditures in the Animal Health Risks and Production Systems program activity rather than in the Zoonotic Risks program activity.

Performance Indicators	Targets	Performance Status
Extent to which the CFIA’s data indicates that foreign regulated animal diseases have entered Canada via specified regulated pathways Data systems and process controls rating Pending	No evidence (i.e. confirmed by the CFIA’s data) that foreign regulated animal diseases have entered into Canada through specified regulated pathways	Met
Performance Analysis: The CFIA met its assigned target and continues to work to maintain its results. Three-year Trend Analysis: For the past three years, the Agency has continued to meet its target for this performance indicator.

Performance Indicators	Targets	Performance Status
Extent to which the CFIA’s data indicates the spread of foreign regulated animal diseases which entered into Canada this fiscal year24 Data systems and process controls rating Not assessed	No evidence of spread of foreign regulated animal diseases beyond the initial control zone	Met
Performance Analysis: The CFIA met its assigned target and continues to work to maintain its results. Three-year Trend Analysis: As 2008-09 is the first year the Agency is reporting on this performance indicator, trend information is not available.

Performance Indicators	Targets	Performance Status
Extent to which renderers and feed mills inspected are without any major deviations with respect to the Feeds Regulations and the Health of Animals Regulations (Enhanced Feed Ban)25 Data systems and process controls rating Reasonable	≥ 95% compliance	Renderers	93%	Not met
		Feed Mills	78%	Not met
Performance Analysis: Renderers In 2008-09, a rendering facility new to the inspection process was determined to be non-compliant. This instance led to a drop of 2.2 per cent in overall compliance, resulting in the Agency not meeting its target. It is expected that as the facility becomes more familiar with the regulations and inspection requirements, its compliance will improve. Feed Mills In 2008-09, the operators of facilities raised concerns over certain compliance standards. In response, the CFIA and operators began working towards addressing these concerns. To strengthen compliance rates, the CFIA is working to improve its enforcement systems including oversight, controls and follow-up procedures to better ensure that incidents of non-compliance are addressed and resolved. Compliance Approaches and Methods: For both sub-indicators, a monitoring approach is used for assessing compliance, and compliance results are determined following a correction period of 60 days minimum after the end of the fiscal year. Three-year Trend Analysis: For the past three years, there has been a decline in compliance rates for the Renderers sub-indicator due to sensitivities in the calculation methodology as outlined above.26 Compliance rates for the Feed Mills sub-indicator increased slightly in 2008-09 following a decline in 2007-08. It is expected that there will continue to be improvements in compliance over time.
Additional Information: Animal Health Programs: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/anima/animae.shtml

Plant Health Risks and Production Systems

The CFIA’s programming plays an important role in minimizing and managing risk by protecting Canada’s plant resource base (crops and forests) from regulated pests and disease through the regulation of plants and plant products, as well as products that can act as pest pathways (e.g. soil). Given the widening array of pathways for plant pests to enter Canada, the Agency will need to refocus its targets and indicators on those areas under the CFIA’s sphere of control. For example, it is impossible for the CFIA to control the passage of pests by natural dispersal means or by means that cannot be readily inspected. Consequently, the CFIA will need to develop indicators of performance on specific areas where risk management measures can be applied and refocus its energies toward understanding the biological processes around these pests and diseases so that sustainable control measures can be implemented.

Performance Analysis

In 2008-09, following detection of potato cyst nematode (PCN) in Alberta, extensive survey sampling and laboratory testing were required within an extremely short timeframe in order to maintain market access for Alberta potatoes²⁷. This challenge was addressed through mobilization of extensive field and laboratory resources and critical partnerships that included the Alberta Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. Also, after seven years of effective regulatory controls and eradication programs, the Agency verified that the plum pox virus had been eradicated in six of seven control areas.

The CFIA continued to develop a strengthened and streamlined Canadian plant and plant product (such as seed, fertilizers and fertilizer supplements) regulatory framework to support enhanced compliance²⁸. Managing the varying points of views of stakeholders and balancing the need for effective, but not unduly prohibitive regulation, represent a significant challenge in the design and successful implementation of programs. The Agency addressed this challenge through formal consultative forums and negotiations with stakeholders and trading partners. These forums raised stakeholder understanding and awareness of regulatory requirements, which supports ongoing compliance and increases opportunities for stakeholders to engage in policy development. Additionally, ongoing progress was made on the North American Perimeter Approach to improve the international coordination of the regulation of diseases and pests.

Performance Summary

The CFIA has taken steps to improve plant pest surveillance, detection and control activities and has continued to collaborate with partners and stakeholders to enhance program and regulatory frameworks, thereby making progress in achieving its expected result that risks to the plant resource base are managed within acceptable limits. The Agency remains faced with the challenge of the spread of some plant pests and it needs to identify performance indicators that are more appropriate to its activities.

The following table identifies the CFIA’s expected result, performance indicators and targets for this program activity, and reports 2008-09 performance against these expectations. For more detailed information, including results from previous reporting periods, refer to section 3.3.2 Summary of Performance Indicators.

Table 2–5: Summary of Performance: Plant Health Risks and Production Systems

Program Activity: Plant Health Risks and Production Systems²⁹

Expected Result: Risks to the plant resource base are managed within acceptable limits
2008-09 Financial Resources ($ millions)			2008-09 Human Resources (FTEs)
Planned Spending	Total Authorities	Actual Spending	Planned	Actual	Difference
79.0	95.7	91.4	753	694	59
Variance Analysis
The variance between Planned Spending and Total Authorities is attributed to increased statutory compensation payments, funding received for collective bargaining and increased employee benefits plan requirements. The variance between Total Authorities and Actual Spending is mostly explained by reallocation to other program areas.

Performance Indicators	Targets	Performance Status
Extent to which CFIA data indicates the entry and establishment of new and foreign regulated plant diseases and pests into Canada (listed diseases/pests in the Regulated Pest List for Canada) Data systems and process controls rating Pending	No evidence (i.e. confirmed CFIA data) of the entry and establishment of new foreign regulated plant diseases and pests into Canada through specified regulated pathways	Met 0 entries of pests currently on the Regulated Pest List for Canada
Performance Analysis: The CFIA met its target in 2008-09 due in part to a refinement of the performance indicator, whereby the Agency counts the entry and establishment of only those pests that are on the Regulated Pest List for Canada. However, the spread of pests and diseases can result from many factors including natural mechanisms such as wind or wildlife. Consequently, the current target is not realistic because no containment program can control all possible plant pests and diseases. As such, work is ongoing in this area to identify more appropriate performance targets based on pre-border, border and post-border risk mitigation strategies and control measures. Three-year Trend Analysis: In 2006-07, there were two new pests identified and in 2007-08, there were three new pests identified. As noted, work is ongoing to identify more appropriate performance targets.

Performance Indicators	Targets	Performance Status
Extent of change in the presence of regulated plant diseases or pests beyond the regulated areas Data systems and process controls rating Pending	No evidence of increase in the size of regulated areas for plant diseases/pests attributable to human activity	Not Met Five pests spread outside regulated areas
Performance Analysis: The CFIA helps to limit the spread of pests and diseases caused by humans through the movement of material such as logs, firewood or nursery stock. However, in many cases it is difficult to attribute the spread of a pest and/or disease to a specific human activity versus a spread caused by natural mechanisms such as wind or wildlife. As such, the current target is not realistically achievable. Work is ongoing in this area to identify more appropriate performance targets. Three-year Trend Analysis: For the past three years, there has not been a significant variance in the numerical results obtained. Although, as noted, work is ongoing to identify more appropriate performance targets.

Performance Indicators	Targets	Performance Status
Extent to which Plant Health risks identified by the CFIA (within and outside Canada) are communicated to the affected stakeholders Data systems and process controls rating Not assessed	Following the identification of a plant health risk, appropriate information is communicated with the relevant stakeholders in less than one month	Not Met 33% of communications were made in less than one month
Performance Analysis: In many cases, the pest risk assessment results were not communicated in time due to the level of analysis required for the CFIA to determine a strategy to address the risks identified. The Agency is working to improve its tracking and timing of communications with stakeholders as well as consistency in its communication tools. Three-year Trend Analysis: As 2008-09 is the first year the Agency is reporting on this performance indicator, trend information is not available.
Additional Information: Plant Protection Programs: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/plaveg/plavege.shtml Plant Pests: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/plaveg/pestrava/pestravae.shtml

Biodiversity Protection

The CFIA’s programming in support of biodiversity protection plays an important role in minimizing and managing risks to Canada’s environment. Legislation addressing the management of novel agricultural products and emerging biotechnologies is administered by the CFIA and contributes to biodiversity protection, including the Plant Protection Act, Seeds Act, Fertilizers Act, Feeds Act and the Health of Animals Act. The CFIA’s programming includes protecting Canada’s biodiversity from the spread of invasive alien species and other pests that could emerge due to environmental change. It also includes the environmental assessment of novel agricultural products, including products of emerging technologies.

Performance Analysis

In 2008-09, the CFIA continued to work with partners to develop an overarching invasive alien species policy to provide grounds for enforcement and compliance with regulations. The Agency has enhanced inspection procedures for imported plant products and high risk pathways for plant pests. Through the Don’t Move Firewood campaign, the CFIA has raised awareness among Canadians of the potential damage that moving firewood can cause to our national forests by aiding the spread of invasive species, such as the emerald ash borer. An ongoing challenge is the ability to keep pace with new technologies for the purposes of pest detection and control. The CFIA has engaged in an agreement with Natural Resources Canada’s Canadian Forest Service to conduct research on detection methodologies for forest pests in Canada. This initiative aligns resources toward areas of concern, while providing a flexible framework to structure research needs for future plant pest problems.

Under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, there are multiple departments and agencies involved in the regulation of products of biotechnology. The Agency has worked with federal partners to facilitate the coordination and harmonization of policy and regulatory approaches and developed a roadmap for the regulation of novel agricultural products in Canada. The Agency has also increased capacity for scientific evaluation of novel products of biotechnology for registration purposes and research authorizations. An ongoing challenge is the ability of the CFIA’s scientific information, expertise and policies to keep pace with emerging technologies and products.

Performance Summary

A higher number of high-risk pathways for plant pests has increased the challenge of preventing the spread of invasive alien species within Canada. The Agency has enhanced inspection procedures and taken steps to improve detection methodologies for forest pests. The Agency has also continued to assess agricultural products for safety and efficacy and collaborated with partners and stakeholders to enhance program and regulatory frameworks, thereby making progress in achieving its expected result that risks to biodiversity within the animal and plant resource base are managed within acceptable limits.

The following table identifies the CFIA’s expected result, performance indicators and targets for this program activity, and reports 2008-09 performance against these expectations. For more detailed information, including results from previous reporting periods, refer to section 3.3.2 Summary of Performance Indicators.

Table 2–6: Summary of Performance: Biodiversity Protection

Program Activity: Biodiversity Protection³⁰

Expected Result: Risks to biodiversity within the animal and plant resource base are managed within acceptable limits
2008-09 Financial Resources ($ millions)			2008-09 Human Resources (FTEs)
Planned Spending	Total Authorities	Actual Spending	Planned	Actual	Difference
14.8	16.0	15.1	130	230	(100)

Performance Indicators	Targets	Performance Status
Extent to which authorized novel products, having undergone an environmental assessment, comply with CFIA requirements and standards outlined in the authorization31 Data systems and process controls rating Pending	Plants with Novel Traits: 90% Novel Fertilizer: 95% Additional information32	Plants with Novel Traits	96%	Met
		Novel Fertilizer	80%	Not met
		Feed	Not reported in 2008-09 RPP
		Veterinary Biologics	Not reported in 2008-09 RPP
Performance Analysis: Novel Fertilizer The CFIA did not meet its target due, in part, to two minor, non-safety-related inconsistencies between the trial and the CFIA requirements outlined in the authorization. Due to the small number of trials, each non-compliance has a significant impact on the compliance rate overall. Also, the Novel Fertilizer sub-indicator methodology no longer includes registered, well-established product types that have had a history of generally high compliance. Compliance Approaches and Methods: For the Plants with Novel Traits and Novel Fertilizer sub-indicators a monitoring approach is used for assessing compliance and compliance results are determined during the initial inspection. Three-year Trend Analysis: For the past three years, there has been an increasing trend in compliance rates for the Plants with Novel Traits area and consistent compliance rates for the Novel Fertilizer area given the small number of trials.
Additional information: Invasive Alien Species: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/plaveg/invenv/refe.shtml Plant Biosafety: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/plaveg/bio/pbobbve.shtml

Benefits for Canadians

Through the Agency’s improved monitoring, testing and control of the plant and animal resource base, Canadians are better protected from serious economic and environmental impacts resulting from highly contagious foreign animal and plant diseases. Rigorous assessments provided Canadian farmers with access to a greater number of safe new plants and agricultural products, while increased confidence in our regulatory systems has supported the export of Canadian products.

2.2.3 Strategic Outcome 3: Contributes to consumer protection and market access based on the application of science and standards

[D]

The CFIA’s programming contributes to securing the conditions needed for consumer protection (as it relates to food and certain agricultural products) and for a prosperous Canadian agri-food sector that is able to access global markets. The Agency aims to verify that information provided to Canadian consumers through labels and advertising is truthful and not misleading. The CFIA also works to facilitate continued and new market access for Canadian agriculture and agri-food products by verifying that Canadian products meet Canadian regulations and international standards and by representing Canada’s interests in international fora through the provision of technical support and in negotiating technical agreements and standards. To facilitate a level playing field for domestic producers and importers, the CFIA also verifies that imported products meet Canadian standards. In 2008-09, the CFIA worked with the Canadian Grain Commission on supporting export and domestic market access and on a portfolio seed policy working group to support coordinated policy development and information sharing related to field crop production. In carrying out activities toward the achievement of this strategic outcome, the Agency focused its efforts on the following priority:

• Improving the program and regulatory frameworks to support continued consumer protection and economic prosperity.

Program Activity Summary

Performance against plans and priorities is presented within the context of the following two program activities:

• Integrated Regulatory Frameworks; and
• Domestic and International Market Access.

Work under these program activities is aimed at addressing the Program Framework and Partnership: Roles and Responsibilities corporate risk areas.

2008-09 Actual Spending

Integrated Regulatory Frameworks

The CFIA is continuing efforts toward building a regulatory base that is consistent, science-based and outcome-oriented and that aims to provide greater transparency for consumers and industry while supporting trade and facilitating collaboration. As part of this process, advances in inspection approaches, changing food consumption trends, increasing trade volumes and higher international standards have underscored the need to review and modernize the Agency’s legislative and regulatory framework to ensure its authorities remain sufficiently robust. The Agency is committed to building on past efforts toward renewing the legislative and regulatory framework and is continuing to work with its federal partners toward that goal.

Performance Analysis

As discussed in section 2.2.2 (Plant Health Risks and Production Systems), the CFIA continued to develop a strengthened and streamlined Canadian plant and plant product regulatory framework to support enhanced compliance as well as minimize unnecessary regulatory burden, reduce barriers to innovation and trade, and to facilitate competitiveness of the Canadian agricultural sector while maintaining the highest safety, quality, efficacy and environmental sustainability standards. In contributing to the Government of Canada’s PBRI, the Agency achieved its target of a 20 per cent reduction in administrative burden imposed on business. This success represents over 250 projects taken from across the Agency’s mandate with a view to streamlining and simplifying administrative requirements.

The Agency continued to work toward implementing the Government-wide Cabinet Directive on Streamlining Regulation (CDSR) which provides for a more effective, efficient and accountable regulatory system. While the Agency has played an active role in supporting the implementation of the CDSR, new and enhanced requirements for the development of regulations have placed challenges on existing resources in the areas of risk assessment, economic assessment and performance measurement. The Agency also began work on the development of a modernized user fee regime that is more streamlined, flexible and consistent with that of international competitors. The CFIA remains committed to addressing these short-term challenges in order to realize better, more effective regulation in the future.

The CFIA also continued to promote national and international alignment of regulations and standards, working with partners to remain at the forefront of scientific developments and to influence the establishment of national and international standards that are based on the most current science and that contribute to a more predictable trade environment. The proposed National Strategy for Safe Food developed by F/P/T food safety officials sets out a vision and common priorities to align federal, provincial and territorial food safety efforts, thereby addressing trading partners’ demands, improving national oversight, maintaining consumer confidence and enhancing the ability to demonstrate effectiveness of the overall food safety system. Internationally, the Agency influences the implementation of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Sanitary and Phytosanitary Agreement, which stipulates that regulations must be based on science, are applied only to the extent necessary to protect human, animal or plant life or health and do not arbitrarily or unjustifiably discriminate against other countries.

Performance Summary

The CFIA has taken steps to improve and modernize its program and regulatory frameworks including the promotion of national and international alignment of regulations and enforcement procedures. While the Agency has met its performance target, as indicated in the table below, and has made progress toward achieving its expected result that the CFIA’s regulatory framework provides the greatest net benefit for Canadians as it is based on scientific approaches and takes into account international contributions and stakeholders’ interests, ongoing work in this area is needed.

The following table identifies the CFIA’s expected result, performance indicators and targets for this program activity, and reports 2008-09 performance against these expectations. For more detailed information, including results from previous reporting periods, refer to section 3.3.2 Summary of Performance Indicators.

Table 2–7: Summary of Performance: Integrated Regulatory Frameworks

Program Activity: Integrated Regulatory Frameworks³³

Expected Result: The CFIA’s regulatory framework provides the greatest net benefit for Canadians as it is based on scientific approaches and takes into account international contributions and stakeholders’ interests
2008-09 Financial Resources ($ millions)			2008-09 Human Resources (FTEs)
Planned Spending	Total Authorities	Actual Spending	Planned	Actual	Difference
19.5	21.6	21.1	237	186	51

Performance Indicators	Targets	Performance Status
The proportion of regulatory initiatives that are pre-published in Canada Gazette, Part I prior to publication in Canada Gazette, Part II34 Data systems and process controls rating Not assessed	≥ 95% of regulatory initiatives are pre-published in Canada Gazette, Part I prior to publication in Canada Gazette, Part II	Met 100%
Performance Analysis: In 2008-09, the CFIA successfully passed nine regulatory amendments. Four specific exemptions to the pre-publishing requirement were granted by the Treasury Board. These exemptions were minor and had no substantial implications for the implementation of the regulations and, therefore, have not been reported as affecting the assigned performance rating. Three-year Trend Analysis: As 2008-09 is the first year the Agency is reporting on this performance indicator, trend information is not available.
Additional information: Paperwork Burden Reduction Initiative official site (Industry Canada): http://www.reducingpaperburden.gc.ca/epic/site/pbri-iafp.nsf/en/h_sx00001e.html Fair Labelling Practices: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/fssa/labeti/labetie.shtml Seeds: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/plaveg/seesem/seeseme.shtml Fertilizer: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/plaveg/fereng/ferenge.shtml

Domestic and International Market Access

The CFIA contributes to securing the conditions for an innovative and prosperous economy primarily by facilitating and maintaining fair competition, supporting fair market practices, monitoring product efficacy/quality and enabling products to enter domestic and international markets. These activities include the responsibility for enforcing food labelling provisions in Canada and playing a key role in protecting consumers and enabling them to make informed choices.

Performance Analysis

In 2008-09, the CFIA revised and implemented its Product of Canada and Made in Canada guidelines. The purpose of this revision was to provide consumers with greater transparency on what products are produced and/or processed in Canada. The Agency also took steps to improve industry awareness of labelling requirements and to enhance consistency in the application of enforcement measures.

The CFIA has continued its ongoing efforts to ensure the consistent application of science-based decision-making by importing countries with respect to market access for Canadian products. In 2008-09, the Agency was successful in regaining market access for cattle to Mexico, Jordan and Saudi Arabia and continued to pursue technical negotiations with Korea. The Agency, by increasing security features on export certificates in order to address concerns regarding fraudulent documents, negotiated the re-opening of the Russian market for Canadian pork and continues to engage with India regarding the re-evaluation of requirements for the export of pulses.

Under the umbrella of the Security and Prosperity Partnership (SPP), the CFIA continued to promote the safety of imported products by working with national and international partners to enhance information exchange mechanisms and conducting further research on food safety issues including outbreaks involving bio-threat agents. The inspection of imports and subsequent actions taken when pests are detected, as discussed in section 2.2.2, represent the first line of defence for Canada's agricultural resource base. The Agency has taken steps to improve inspection procedures for plant products so that they are conducted in a valid, risk-based manner.

Performance Summary

The CFIA has taken steps to protect consumers and the marketplace from unfair practices, improve market access and promote the security of Canada’s food supply and agricultural resource base. The Agency has consistently met its performance targets over the past three years. Consequently, the Agency has made progress in achieving its expected result that Canadian producers of food, plants, animals and related products operate within a fair and efficient marketplace, from which Canadian consumers benefit.

The following table identifies the CFIA’s expected result, performance indicators and targets for this program activity, and reports 2008-09 performance against these expectations. For more detailed information, including results from previous reporting periods, refer to section 3.3.2 Summary of Performance Indicators.

Table 2–8: Summary of Performance: Domestic and International Market Access

Program Activity: Domestic and International Market Access³⁵

Expected Result: Canadian producers of food, plants, animals and related products operate within a fair and efficient marketplace, from which Canadian consumers benefit
2008-09 Financial Resources ($ millions)			2008-09 Human Resources (FTEs)
Planned Spending	Total Authorities	Actual Spending	Planned	Actual	Difference
30.3	35.7	37.6	496	657	(161)

Performance Indicators	Targets	Performance Status
Extent to which products, labels, and advertisements inspected are accurately represented Data systems and process controls rating Not assessed	70% of products, labels, and advertisements inspected are accurately represented	Met 82%
Performance Analysis: The CFIA met its assigned target and continues to work to maintain its results. Compliance Approaches and Methods: A targeted approach is used for assessing compliance and compliance results are determined during the initial testing of products, labels and advertisements. Three-year Trend Analysis: As 2008-09 is the first year the Agency is reporting on this performance indicator, trend information is not available.

Performance Indicators	Targets	Performance Status
Extent to which certified food, animal and plant shipments meet the receiving country's import requirements Data systems and process controls rating Meat, Fish & Seafood and Processed Egg: Good Animal: Not assessed36 Plant: Not assessed	≥ 99% meet requirements	Food - Meat	100%	Met
		Food – Fish and Seafood	99%	Met
		Food – Processed Egg	100%	Met
		Animal	No data available
		Plant	100%	Met
Performance Analysis: The CFIA conducts animal certification for export, but foreign importers are not required to provide the Agency with information on the number of live animals rejected upon delivery. As such, the CFIA had no data available for the Animal sub-indicator. The CFIA is working on a new system that will allow it to collect accurate data on this area in the future. Three-year Trend Analysis: For the past three years, the Agency has met its target for this performance indicator.

Performance Indicators	Targets	Performance Status
Extent to which the service standards within the plant program are met Data systems and process controls rating Not assessed37	≥ 95% of plant programs applications which are subject to service standards are completed within the service standard identified	No data available
Performance Analysis: The CFIA did not collect data in relation to this performance indicator in 2008-09 because it was deemed to be insufficient in order to provide a valuable indication of the extent to which the Agency is able to achieve the established service standards. The moratorium on increasing user fees and need for more stringent service standards have resulted in a re-evaluation of this indicator in order to improve the Agency’s ability to measure its performance in this area. Three-year Trend Analysis: As 2008-09 is the first year the Agency was to report on this performance indicator, trend information is not available.
Additional information: In 2008, the CFIA received 348 applications for plant breeders' rights (PBR) and rights were granted to 333 plant varieties. The Agency also renewed the protection of 1,677 varieties that were previously approved for grant of rights. For more information on PBR please visit: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/plaveg/pbrpov/pbrpove.shtml Destination Inspection Services: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/fssa/frefra/dis/dise.shtml#serv Canada Organic Regime: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/fssa/orgbio/orgbioe.shtml

Benefits for Canadians

Market access and consumer protection are key to Canada’s economy. Through science based regulation, resolved technical barriers and revisions to guidelines and standards, producers of Canadian food, plants, animals and related products have greater international access, as well as a fair and efficient marketplace within which to operate.

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