ARCHIVED - Health Canada - Supplementary Tables

• Increase level of Canadian public awareness of chemical management issues and actions being taken
• Risk assessments are conducted and risk management objectives are met for regulations and other control instruments for substances and the products of biotechnology
• Declining trends in levels of risk, adverse reactions, illnesses and injuries from toxic chemical substances in the environment and their use and/or the risk of exposure to Canadians.
• Enhanced knowledge of environmental hazards and evidence on which regulatory decisions are based.

A key component of the CMP is taking immediate action on approximately 200 of the highest priority chemicals identified in the Challenge program. Through the "Challenge" Initiative - industry and stakeholders were challenged to provide information on chemicals and on safe management practices for 196 of the highest priority substances found in commerce.  The Government of Canada has now released information on all Challenge substances identifying those that are a potential concern to human health or environment, completed the collection of information under section 71 from industry on all substances, published draft or final screening risk assessments on 192 of the 196 substances in the "Challenge", and initiated risk management action on 45 substances that may pose a risk to our health and/or the environment.

The majority of CMP risk assessments that were scheduled for publication during 2010-2011 were completed.  These included the release of the final Screening Assessment Reports for Batches 8 to 10 and draft Screening Assessment Reports for Batches 10 to 12, including additional substances from Batch 1 (CHPD), Batch 6 and Batch 8.  In total, draft risk assessment reports were published for 47 substances, or classes of substances, and final assessment reports were published for 43 substances, or classes of substances. Several reports for non-Challenge substances were also published in the Canada Gazette, Part I (final Screening Assessment Report on Ethylene Glycol and final State of the Science report on DecaBDE; draft Screening Assessment Reports on Quinoline, PFOA, PFCAs and HBCD).  There was also a follow-up Assessment report on Aniline published in 2010-2011.

During 2010-2011, three draft Screening Assessment Reports covering approximately 70 petroleum substances that have been identified as being restricted to petroleum refineries and upgrader facilities were published in the Canada Gazette, Part I.  Strategies and methods to assess the remaining substances (or groups of substances) within the Petroleum Stream are currently being developed.

As part of the Challenge, risk management approaches were published for nine substances in Batches 8 to 10 that were determined to be harmful to human health or the environment (approaches for Batches 11-12 are planned for 2011-2012) and risk management scopes were published for 13 substances in Batches 8 to 11 that were proposed to meet one or more criteria of section 64 of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA, 1999) (Batch 12 scopes are partially complete). Proposed risk management instruments were developed for Batches 1 and 2 and have been published for comment, as per planned timelines.

In total, 34 risk management instruments have been applied to CMP Challenge substances during 2010-2011. This year, actions taken or proposed for substances that were determined to be harmful to human health or the environment under the Challenge included final additions to Health Canada's Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist (16 CMP substances from Batches 3-9 were added to the Health Canada's Cosmetics Ingredient Hotlist on March 2011; to date, 25 CMP substances have been added to the Hotlist from Batches 1-9) targeted dietary surveillance activities for substances of concern where food is the main source of exposure, and proposed listings and delistings of some food additives from the Food and Drug Regulations. As well, 16 proposed CEPA instruments for substances determined to be harmful to human health or the environment in Batches 1 to 3 were published in Canada Gazette, Part I, including Proposed Pollution Prevention Notices for four substances [Bisphenol A, Isoprene, Siloxanes (D4) and TDI].

For substances where current exposure is not of concern, but where there are concerns that new activities or uses  resulting in additional exposure could harm human health or the environment, the Significant New Activity (SNAc) regulatory instrument under CEPA, 1999 provides for information gathering and assessment prior to this new activity or use being initiated. SNAcs were either proposed or implemented for 55Challenge substances concluded to either not meet section 64 of CEPA 1999 or to not be in commerce in Canada. There were also approximately26 proposed or implemented SNAcs for Challenge substances that met one or more criteria of section 64 of CEPA 1999.

The Government of Canada continued to seek advice and input from the CMP Stakeholder Advisory Council (members include non-governmental organizations and industry).  HC and EC co-chaired aface-to-face meeting in May 2010 where the Council provided advice and input on CMP related activities.  Advice and input from the CMP Stakeholder Advisory Council, as well as other stakeholders, was also sought at a workshop on selecting the next round of substances for the CMP which was held in November 2010.

Environmental monitoring programs have been integrated and augmented under the CMP to provide a truly national program, capable of meeting the government's existing monitoring commitments as well as being responsive to emerging chemicals of concern.  Environmental monitoring and surveillance of chemicals in air, food, water, sediments, fish and birds, as well as releases from wastewater and landfills is coordinated by an EC led working group (including HC representation).

The HC CMP Monitoring and Surveillance Initiative supports multi-year projects to advance our knowledge related to the following priorities: national biomonitoring programs, targeted population biomonitoring studies, biomonitoring supportive research, and targeted environmental monitoring. Nineteen multi-year projects were funded under this initiative, with ten initiated in 2010-2011. Projects included:

• A three year national survey of contaminants in Canadian drinking was completed in 2010-2011. The data is providing updated exposure information to be used in the preparation/update of Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality.
• Phase 1 of the multi-year Canadian House Dust Study was completed in 2010-2011.  This project is providing nationally-representative baseline estimates of chemicals found in urban house dust, with the initial determination of bioaccessible lead.
• A study on dermal absorption of substances being assessed under the CMP.  The study is increasing our understanding of how chemicals are transported from the outer surface of the skin to internal layers and blood circulation, in order to better estimate exposure.
• A national indoor air survey of chemicals focusing on selected priority chemicals in Canadian residential indoor air.  Indoor air sample collection began in September 2009 and will be completed in December 2011.  Results are expected to be released to the public through Statistics Canada in 2012.  The data will be used to support Health Canada risk assessment and risk management work, as well as indoor air quality guideline development.

The CHMS is a national survey carried out by Statistics Canada, in partnership with Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada, to collect information from Canadians about their health.  Health Canada is responsible for the biomonitoring component, in which blood and urine samples are collected to provide nationally representative information on exposure to environmental chemicals. In 2010-2011, Health Canada published the Report on Human Biomonitoring of Environmental Chemicals in Canada which provides full biomonitoring results for chemicals measured during Cycle 1.  Except for lead, these results provide the first ever nationally representative biomonitoring data of all the chemicals measured. The second Cycle (2009 -2011) of CHMS is currently underway and includes children aged 3-5 years, and an indoor air component.  The data is being collected from 18 sites across Canada.  Planning for Cycles 3 and 4 has also been initiated.

The Maternal-Infant Research on Environmental Chemicals (MIREC) Study is a national five-year study that is recruiting approximately 2,000 pregnant women during the first trimester of pregnancy, who are then followed through pregnancy and up to eight weeks after birth. This study is measuring the extent to which pregnant women and their babies are exposed to environmental chemicals, assessing what pregnancy health risks, if any, are associated with exposure to heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic and manganese), and measuring the levels of environmental chemicals and some of the beneficial components (nutritional and immune constituents) of breast milk. Results of the study will inform risk management decisions and identify potential sources of exposure and predictors of exposure to environmental chemicals.

To better understand the exposure and effects of a variety of chemicals that were identified as priorities under the CMP, and to ensure the alignment of activities with priorities, a research program with a competitive allocation process has continued. The CMP themes and priorities addressed the following areas: effects, exposure, tool/model development, endocrine disrupting compounds, metals, mixtures, perfluorinated alkyl compounds, brominated flame retardants and the approximately 3000 remaining priority substances. 

Other CMP activities undertaken in FY 2010-2011 included:

• The first phase of the Inventory Update was completed.  550 substances were included, covering approximately 500 chemicals and 50 microorganisms.  The information collected was used in developing strategies to address medium priorities and in initiating screening assessments under section 74 of microorganisms on the Domestic Substances List (DSL).
• Strategies to address medium priority substances have been developed.  The program further refined priority- setting by grouping these substances by chemical structure, sector, or other strategies.
• Outreach activities, including the preparation and publication of fact sheets on the CMP and ongoing headquarter and regional activities in support of risk management and risk communication such as workshops for stakeholders, continued on schedule.
• Industry surveys on two substances of concern where the main source of exposure is food were conducted (DEHA and methyl eugenol)
• Proposed delisting of three food additives from, and proposed addition of one food additive to, the Food and Drug Regulations as a result of assessments of specific substances under the CMP
• An enhanced sampling program under the Total Dietary Survey was designed, incorporating several substances of concern where food is expected to be the main source of exposure
• Health Canada continued to develop and enforce regulations to address risks posed by harmful chemicals in existing consumer products.  In particular, a new national cyclical enforcement project was put in place to determine the compliance level to the prohibition on polycarbonate baby bottles that contain bisphenol A (BPA) and enforcement action was taken on non-compliant products. Early consultations with stakeholders took place on proposed regulatory action for a Batch 3 and 5 substances (DEGME and TCEP) and economic analysis studies were started for both substances.  In FY 2010-11, the Product Safety Lab (PSL) completed method development and analytical testing of 3 CMP substances implicated in consumer products to support risk management actions (incl. BPA and TCEP). In all, the PSL has completed the sampling and testing of nine CMP chemicals.
• Health Canada also received and assessed nomination packages from industry to support the addition of substances in products regulated under the Food and Drugs Act (F&DA) to the revised In Commerce List (ICL) - a list of substances used in products regulated under the F&DA that were in commerce between January 1987 and September 2001.  A draft framework for the prioritization of substances on the revised ICL was developed as well. Subsequent to prioritization, substances on the revised ICL will undergo health and environmental risk assessments.
• In consultation with industry and NGO stakeholders, HC developed a regulatory framework to assess the environmental risks of new medicinal ingredients in pharmaceuticals and veterinary drugs. Significant progress has been made on the regulatory framework for non-medicinal substances.
• HC continued to develop background information on existing Best Management Practices (BMPs) for substances/products regulated under the F&DA for use in a future stakeholder consultation to determine if and where new and/or improved BMPs may be necessary or need to be considered.
• The re-evaluation of older pesticides, to determine if these pesticides meet today's health and environmental standards was accelerated.  As of March 31, 2011, 373 of the 401 older pesticidal active ingredients have been addressed.
• Thirtynew pesticide active ingredients were registered, 22 of which were biopesticides.
• Health Canada has continued to administer a mandatory health and environmental pesticide incidents reporting program (IRP), where trends are assessed and regulatory action is taken when necessary. During the 2010-2011 fiscal year, the IRP posted 11 evaluations of serious incidents. Regulatory action was taken in response to two of these. The incident reports helped identify potential adverse reactions in cats and dogs from the use of flea and tick control products. In response, the Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) published Regulatory Directive 2010-02 to strengthen the labels of spot-on pesticides used on companion animals for flea and tick control.
• The Chemical Substances Website, to inform the public and stakeholders on the progress of the CMP, was regularly updated.  Updates included posting information related to all CMP Canada Gazette publications, as well as Challenge Advisory Panel meetings, Stakeholder Advisory Council meetings, and new factsheets. A Subscribe function was launched in 2010 which allows users to sign up to receive copies of the Latest News via email.

• Risks to Canadians and impacts on their environment posed by toxic and other substances of concern are reduced.
• Direction, collaboration and coordination of science and management activities
• Increased knowledge of the risks of toxic chemical substances through research and options to mitigate
• Risk assessments conducted in a timely fashion as required
• Risk management objectives are met, e.g. effective controls identified and implemented
• Enhanced knowledge of stakeholders and the Canadian public regarding risk assessment/management activities, including knowledge on the effectiveness of control actions

HECS: $0.385M

FNIHB: $0.7M

PACCB: $1.6M

HECS: $0.271M

FNIHB: $0.392M

PACCB: $1.075

• Distribution of The Environmental Health Guides and subsequent development of Guides for specific populations
• A Guide focusing on senior's health as well as fact sheets designed for health care providers and teachers/students will be developed.
• Tailored guides for First Nations and Inuit for homes and children to be released.
• Tailored guides for First Nations and Inuit for outdoor activities are to be developed and distributed to aboriginal partners for review.
• Continuation of the Environmental Health marketing campaign (mainstream and First Nations components).
• Development of First Nations Biomonitoring Initiative: First Nation priorities will be determined and suitable biomonitoring parameters, sampling protocol, and parameters for an ethics review are to be developed including mechanisms to ensure appropriate comparability of data with the CHMS are in place. Sampling of selected communities is expected to commence.

HECSB/PACCB

Continuation of the Environmental Health marketing campaign / Distribution of The Environmental Health Guides

The 2010-11 Environmental Health Marketing campaign focused primarily on providing information on-line as recent research indicates that Canadians prefer to receive information related to the environment on-line.

• An interactive web quiz and a virtual house tour were completed and posted to the website in early March 2011.
• A Google ad word buy was also very successful and drove 26,000 incremental visits to the website, representing a 245% increase in web traffic with a slightly higher duration of visits.
• Additionally, four on-line videos were developed and completed on the following topics: radon, carbon monoxide, lead and mould.  Total number of Hazardcheck website visits was 61,623.
• To complement these on-line tactics, public engagement events were held nationally at 180 Home Depot locations over three consecutive weekends in March 2011.  Through these events, consumers were educated on the potential environmental risks that may impact their health and how to mitigate them.
• Over 124,000 Environmental Health Guides (Hazardcheck) were distributed and approximately 15,000 one-on-one conversations about home health hazards took place.  These point-of-purchase conversations led to an increase of 32% in sales for air quality devices (i.e. radon test kits and carbon monoxide monitors) vs. sales for the same products in the previous year.
• Feedback from participants indicated that 91% rated the information that they received at the in-store events as either useful (33%) or very useful (58%).
• As a further complement to the on-line tactics, 180, 000 copies of the Guide were polybagged and distributed via the Parents Canada national post-natal magazines Best Wishes and Mon Bébé.
• In addition to these distribution channels in support of the marketing campaign, an average of 13, 000 copies of the Guide are requested and distributed nationally each month through Service Canada, amounting to over 150, 000 per year.

In 2010-11, the First Nations and Inuit Environmental Health Marketing campaign focused on providing tailored information directly in communities and on-line as recent research indicates that First Nations and Inuit community members prefer to receive information related to the environment through these channels.

• 200,000 copies of the First Nation Environmental Health Home Guide were distributed to all First Nation households across the country. An additional 74,000 copies of the guide were ordered on-line. The Inuit Environmental Health Home Guide will be distributed to Inuit communities.
• Content of both the First Nation and Inuit Home Guide are available on the HC website. Total number of website visits was over 10,000.
• Tailored guides and activity booklets for First Nations and Inuit youth and children have been developed and will be distributed to schools in First Nations and Inuit communities in the fall.
• Tailored guides for spring and summer outdoor activities for First Nations and Inuit have been developed and will be distributed to communities.
• Radio, print and television public service announcements were developed with First Nations and Inuit youth and the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network. Distribution to Aboriginal media outlets is planned for the fall.
• A pilot project for environmental health community gatherings were held in 4 First Nations and 4 Inuit communities in collaboration with the National Aboriginal Health Organization. A resource for self-run environmental health community gatherings will be distributed to intermediaries in the communities.

FNIHB/PACCB

The First Nation Environmental Health Home Guide has been distributed to all First Nation household across the country and the Inuit Environmental Health Home Guide will be distributed to Inuit communities.

• Content of both the First Nation and Inuit Home Guide are available on the HC website.
• Tailored guides for First Nations and Inuit youth and children have been developed and are in approvals.
• Environmental Health activity booklets for First Nations and Inuit youth and children have been developed and are available on the HC website and will be distributed to schools in First Nations and Inuit communities.
• Tailored guides for First Nations spring and summer outdoor activities have been developed and are awaiting approvals. Inuit guides for spring and summer outdoor activities have been developed.
• Continuation of the Environmental Health marketing campaign (mainstream and First Nations components).

• First Nations priorities were gauged through Interest Assessment Surveys that were sent by the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) to all FN communities across Canada.   Following the survey, a First Nations Advisory Committee comprising First Nation regional representatives for their eight regions, an Elder, youth, and other technical experts was established to advise the FNBI Steering Committee on the design, conduct, and chemical parameters to be analyzed.
• The FNBI pilot project (including FNBI sampling protocol and parameters) was submitted to HC/PHAC's Research Ethics Board and received approval in October, 2010.
• In Jan/Feb 2011, the FNBI pilot project was carried out in two Manitoba communities - a northern, remote, rural community and the other, a southern, non-remote urban community.  The objectives of the pilot project were to determine the operational and logistical requirements, participant response rates, human resources and financial costs associated with this undertaking in a remote vs. non-remote FN community.  Participation rate was very high and the survey was met with much enthusiasm and interest in both communities.  Urine and blood samples sent to same lab as that of CHMS for lab analysis. Results and lessons learned from the pilot project to be applied to the full-scale survey protocol for 2011-12.
• Environmental parameters chosen for FNBI and the laboratory selected for analysis of chemicals are the same as CHMS.  Statistics Canada statisticians working in consultation with AFN and HC statisticians to ensure comparability to CHMS data.

• increased capacity in the provinces and territories for surveillance of congenital anomalies in their jurisdictions
• strengthened networks across Canada for surveillance and research into prevention of congenital anomalies

• Increased capacity in the provinces and territories for surveillance of congenital anomalies in their jurisdictions
• PHAC, through formal agreements (MoA), supported 6 jurisdictions across Canada to establish and develop new surveillance systems for congenital anomalies or to enhance existing ones.
• Key surveillance activities implemented by jurisdictions to enhance congenital anomalies surveillance included: consultation with local stakeholders; needs assessment; database development; planning and implementation of Privacy Impact Assessments; development of data sharing agreements, data source integration; development of data collection forms; data collection; and, development of surveillance tools.

• Strengthened networks across Canada for surveillance and research into prevention of congenital anomalies
• The Canadian Congenital Anomalies Surveillance Network was established and successfully carried out its 2011 Scientific Meeting on "Environmental and Nutritional Vulnerabilities for Congenital Anomalies", held on November 17-19, 2010 in Ottawa.  Participants discussed maternal characteristics and socio-demographic factors affecting fetal development and susceptibility for congenital anomalies; epidemiological studies on nutritional deficiencies and excesses associated with congenital anomalies, focusing on micronutrient intake, including folate; up-to-date information on key environmental exposures/risk factors and their interaction with nutrition in pregnancy; and integrating congenital anomalies surveillance and research into current public health initiatives.
• The Network continues to provide a forum to inform and engage jurisdictions and programs regarding the Agency's activities to improve congenital anomalies nationally as well as a platform to move the initiative forward.

• a network for surveillance of autism in Canada
• increased public health scientific capacity in autism within the federal government

• A network for surveillance of autism in Canada
• To develop a network for the surveillance of autism spectrum disorders in Canada, the Public Health Agency of Canada has gathered national and international experts in the fields of health, research, education and treatment/services and national stakeholders in both non-government organizations and professional associations to build a network for the surveillance of autism spectrum disorders in Canada.
• Over the past few years (2009 to 2011) PHAC supported research on the use of existing administrative data sets to capture information on children living with autism spectrum disorders through the National Epidemiological Database for the Study of Autism in Canada (NEDSAC), Queen's University.
• Increased public health scientific capacity in autism within the federal government
• In 2009-2010, PHAC engaged a team of epidemiologists to research surveillance options.
• The team is working collaboratively with provincial and territorial partners to build upon what has already been achieved to create a national system for the surveillance of autism spectrum disorders and thereby increase public health scientific capacity.  Working with the provinces and territories, PHAC will better understand existing programs, data sources, needs and gaps.

CHMS cycle 1 data release (including tables, fact sheets and research articles) media coverage will be monitored. In addition, access to the website and requests for information will be tracked. The CHMS micro-data files will be available to external researchers through Statistics Canada Research Data Centres located in Canadian universities.

CHMS cycle 2 data collection response rate is monitored regularly to ensure adequate representation of the Canadian population by age group and sex. In addition, ongoing data quality control and data quality assurance activities (including health experts' observations of the data collection procedures) are performed to ensure a high data quality level.

CHMS cycle 3 content specifications will be based on extensive consultation with federal partners and health experts through the tripartite governance structure with Health Canada, the Public Health Agency of Canada and Statistics Canada as well as their working committees; and the CHMS advisory committees (Expert, Physician, Laboratory and Quality Assurance and Quality Control). Feasibility studies will be conducted to ensure adherence to existing resources and operations limitations while maintaining a high response rate and quality data.

• CHMS cycle 1 data on environmental contaminants was released in August 2010. Media attention was generally interested and positive. The micro-data files in Research Data Centres were updated to include complete cycle 1 information and documentation.
• Cycle 2 data collection covered 8 sites in 2010-11. Continuous monitoring and rigorous quality assurance activities were applied during the collection period to ensure high quality data.
• Development of cycle 3 content proceeded during 2010-11 with extensive consultation with federal partners and health experts and the CHMS advisory committees (Expert, Physician, Laboratory and Quality Assurance and Quality Control). New environmental variables measured in biological specimens (participants' blood and urine), tap water and indoor air were identified for cycle 3 collection.

1. Health Canada

Electronic Link:  http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fnihb-dgspni/fnihb/
cp/ahsor/index.htm

$107.595 (2002-03 through to 2006-07;  $21.519/year). $21.519/year ongoing.

Committed in 2002.

ELCC

$24.000 (2005-06 through to 2007-08, $7.500 in 2005-06, $8.300 in 2006-07;

$8.200 in 2007-08).

$7.500 in 2008-09 and ongoing

Committed in 2005.

$21.519

$7.500

Program expansion and enhanceme-nt

Increase integration, coordinatio-n,  access, and quality

AHSOR programming was expanded in 15 new First Nations Communities in British Colombia.

In partnership with Health Canada's Aboriginal Health Human Resources Initiative, over 200  Early Childhood Education (ECE) workers are working towards their ECE accreditation.Work continues with partner departments to improve integration and coordination among AHSOR, HRSDC FNICCI, and AAND- funded daycares in Alberta and Ontario.

b. Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

• First Nations and Inuit Component(FASD-FNIC)

$70.000  (2002-03 through to 2006-07;

$10.000 in 2002-03 and $15.000 thereafter). $15.000/ year ongoing.

Committed in 2002.

Integration between programs that support maternal and child health was increased across First Nation and Inuit communities, resulting in better coordination and collaboration across programs.

Programs focused on maintenance and program integrity through training, leading to increased retention of community workers and also the completion of special studies to support evaluation and on-going improvements to FASD activities and programming.

$5.075

(2002-03 through to 2006-07; $1.015/year). $1.015/ year ongoing.

Committed in 2002.

2. PHAC

Electronic Link: http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/dca-dea/programs-mes
/ahs_main_e.html

PA 1.4 Health Promotion

SA 1.4.3 Childhood and Adolescence Programs

$62.880 (2002-03 through to 2006-07;

$12.576/ year and ongoing.

Committed in 2002.

PA 1.4 Health Promotion

SA 1.4.3 Childhood and Adolescence Programs

$2.500  (2002-03 through to 2006-07; $0.500/year) and ongoing

Committed in 2002

Lifelong Learning- Health Human Resources (HHR)

Lifelong Learning- Health Human Resources (HHR)

$45.700   (2002-03 through to 2006-07; $9.140/year) and ongoing.

Committed in 2002

ELCC

$21.000 (2005-06 through to 2007-08; $7.000/year). $6.500/ year ongoing.

Committed in 2005

$9.140

$6.500

$4.240

Aboriginal UEY:2010/11

$181,168

Program expansion and enhanceme-nt

Increase program integration, coordinatio-n, access and quality.

$21.200

(2002-03 through to 2006-07); $4.240/year and ongoing.

Committed in 2002Aboriginal UEY:From 2004/05 to 2010/11, $700,000 per fiscal year

Aboriginal UEY:
2010/11, $208,366

Aboriginal UEY Results 2010/11:-The UEY Prince Albert Grand Council (PAGC) Project (Aboriginal UEY) has built some capacity in data collection, analysis and dissemination of the project's results;

• The UEY PAGC outcomes and analysis have had an impact on short-term planning, such as the implementation of full-time kindergarten in five schools. Long-term planning is only beginning with the training of early learning and care staff and the implementation of an oral language program in nursery and kindergarten.
• More early-years work will take place in the area of strategic planning and community development (in the coming year) with the directors of Education approving a $50,000 project to follow up on the UEY PAGC Project's results.
• The UEY PAGC Project's Final Report will include PAGC and sector-level data in areas that have never before been examined. The parent interview data and analysis in particular have been of great interest to decision-makers because they highlight many of the family and community strengths, which may act as protective factors against the challenging socio-economic conditions families face.
• The Better Beginnings Early Childhood Conference and the Talking Partners Initiative are two examples of efforts being made to coordinate resources and provide greater support for Prince Albert Grand Council's children.  Communities, schools and agencies. As well, private-sector donations supported the Better Beginnings Conference and $30,000 will be invested in Talking Partners at the PAGC level, which will enable implementation in four pilot schools.
• Further investment by the directors of Education in early-childhood initiatives ($180,000) exemplifies the level of awareness of early childhood development and the critical needs to PAGC's children.
  
  The Better Beginnings Conference brought together many of the service providers who work with children six months to six years of age.

$5.050  (total for 2002-03 through to 2006-07; 1.010/year)

2007-2008 and ongoing.

Committed in 2002.

ECD

(2002-03 to 2006-07): $320.000

($60.000 in 2002-03 and $65.000/year thereafter); $65.000/year ongoing.

ELCC

(2005-06 to 2007-08):

$45.000

($14.500 in 2005-06; $15.300 in 2006-07; $15.200 in 2007-08); and $14.000/year ongoing.

ECD:

$65.000/year ongoing.

ELCC: $14.000/year ongoing.

Pertinent documents are now in place for pharmaceutical human drugs and include instructions in an external Guidance to Industry on how to request a pre-submission meeting and for submitting a pre-submission meeting information package

An internal SOP was developed to track and log pre-submission meetings for biologics and radiopharmaceuticals. Guidance documents/communication pieces are available on the Health Canada website, and sponsors are referred to them during the meetings.

Meetings

During FY 2010-11, sponsors made 49 requests for pre-submission meetings for biologics and radiopharmaceuticals and all meetings were held. Following the meetings, 18 submissions were filed and accepted into review.

Of the 18 submissions accepted into review, 9 have received positive decisions and the remainder are in review or screening. Surveys indicated that 100% of sponsors felt that the pre-submission meetings added value.

There were 97 pre-submission meetings held for pharmaceutical drugs.

Oncology candidate submissions pilot: 17 oncology pre-submission meetings were held in 2010-11, a slight increase from last year's 11. Of the 17 meetings held, 12 were New Drug Submissions (NDS) and 5 were Supplemental New Drug Submissions (SNDS). Of the NDS, 2 of the 10 have been filed and are in review. Of the SNDS, 4 of 5 have been filed and are in review.

Following up on the 11 human pharmaceutical meetings held in FY 2009-10, no specific conclusions can be drawn regarding the effect of pre- submission meetings are having on decisions rendered. The analysis is ongoing and will be concluded at the end of the pilot.

Information is, however, being shared between industry and regulators with discussions focussed more on scientific, rather than purely regulatory issues, which are not explicitly addressed in the Regulations. The meetings are allowing for earlier scoping of key issues during review and for Health Canada to hear from Canadian clinical experts and pose questions directly to them. It has not been determined whether an increased efficiency or different review outcome can be attributed to the fact that a meeting was held.

100% of Risk Management Plans/Risk Management and Mitigation Plans (RMP/RMMP) were considered satisfactory after clarification was received from Market Authorization Holders (MAH) on any areas of concern.

RMMP Received: 18; RMMP Completed: 19

Note - Risk Management Plans (RMP) are provided by MAH and the Risk Management & Mitigation Plan (RMMP) is the MAH follow-up to the initial RMP. The rolled over plans from the previous year account for larger number of completed than assigned.

Relationships with key stakeholders such as Young Consumers Network and Canadian Public Health Association's Expert Panel on Health Literacy were established/enhanced through seven meetings organized under ADM Stakeholder Meeting Program. Stakeholder input received via surveys and follow-up actions was tracked.

In January 2010, a Stakeholder Consultation Workshop on the Plain Language Labelling Project was held in Ottawa. Health Canada will use the results of this consultation to determine how best to improve product information documents for Canadians. Providing information to the consumer in plain language is important for the safe and effective use of therapeutic products and will assist consumers in making informed decisions about their health.

Patient and Consumer Pool

A proposal was approved to create a Patient and Consumer Pool from which the Branch could draw engaged and informed stakeholders to participate in decision-making. The Operational Plan for the Pool was completed through extensive consultations with external stakeholders and program clients.

A Learning Strategy and Curriculum Map were developed for the Pool, including content for two learning modules.

Policy Development

The HPFB Secretariat Manager's Network and the Health Canada Reference Group collaborated extensively to provide input into the development of the soon to be released Health Canada Policy on External Advisory Bodies.

Web Development and Postings:

Health Canada led the review of 5000 HPFB outdated web pages and influenced HC information architecture to allow for better information access for stakeholders and the general public. HC also developed new Web pages / sections on health products issues and revised them for a consumer audience as needed.

Social Media

Provided consumers access to mobile information through the launch of the Recalls and Safety Alerts application for BlackBerry, Android and iPhone smart phones. This tool allows buyers to find out if a product they are about to purchase or have already bought has been recalled.

Enhanced the existing Health Canada Recalls and Safety Alerts Widget to include all health and safety risk communications advisories and recall notices across government departments including the Canadian Food Inspections Agency and Transport Canada.

Encouraged social networking and conversations among consumers through Facebook posts on the Healthy Canadians Fan page.

Promoted risks or other consumer related facts via the @HealthCanada Twitter account.

Scientific/expert advisory committees provide ongoing medical/technical/ scientific advice and recommendations on regulatory issues for drugs and medical devices to assist Health Canada in making regulatory decisions. This information was made available to the public on the Health Canada web site. This past year, the following records of proceedings of our meetings were posted: Scientific Advisory Committee on Medical Devices Used in the Cardiovascular System (2010-06-01); Scientific Advisory Committee on Medical Devices Used in the Cardiovascular System (2010-12-10); Scientific Advisory Committee on Oncology Therapies (2010-04-15); Scientific Advisory Panel on Bioequivalence Requirements for Modified-Release Dosage Forms (2010-06-11); Scientific Advisory Panel on Opioid; Analgesic Abuse (2011-03-29)

In 2010-11, Health Canada prepared and published 26 Notices of Decision documents (ND) (16 Human Drugs, 9 Biologics, 4 Medical Devices) and 37 Summary Basis of Decision documents (19 Human Drugs, 13 Biologics and 5 Medical Devices). As well, the results from the internal and external evaluation of Phase I of the Summary Basis of Decisions project (period covering Jan 2005-Sept 2008) were released. The evaluation report contains short-term recommendations to be implemented as well as findings that will inform the development of Phase II of the SBD project.

A Draft Guidance on Hepatotoxicity of Health Products was posted which contains recommendations from deliberations by the Scientific Advisory Panel on Hepatotoxicity.

In 2010-11, 100% or 1,936 product monographs were processed and posted to the Health Canada website within service standards. Of the product monographs processed, 1,641 were pharmaceuticals and 295 were for biological therapies.

General Documents Posted on Health Canada Website include: a) Information Gathering, Monitoring and Processing: 138; b) Risk Management and Intervention: 16; d) Other: 95

Risk Communication Advisories/Warnings posted to HC Website (MedEffect Canada): a) Total Issued by HC: 128; b) Total Issued by MAH: 56

Reporting

• PSUR Conditions - 14 PSUR-C were received and are currently under review.
• Year-by-year increase in the Periodic Safety Update Reports received

PSUR 2010-11 (PAA 2.1)

• PSUR Level I Assigned: 161; PSUR Level I Completed: 172

  (Note: the rolled over submissions from the previous year account for larger number of completed than assigned)

• PSUR Level II Assigned: 63; PSUR Level II Completed: 52

PSUR 2009-10 (PAA2.1)

PSUR Level I Assigned: 180; PSUR Level I Completed: 140

PSUR Level II Assigned: 65; PSUR Level II Completed: 93 (Note: the rolled over submissions from the previous year account for larger number of completed than assigned)

Increased capacity in Canada to address priority research on post-market drug safety and effectiveness

Also see: Canadian Institute for Health Research, Strategic Priority Research, Targeted Oversight

• Drug Safety and Effectiveness Network(DSEN)
• The partner organizations (CIHR and Health Canada (SPB and HPFB)) collaborated to prepare the material for the first DSEN Steering committee meeting.
• The Health Canada DSEN Implementation Project Team (established by HPFB in 2009 and composed of representatives from HPFB and FNIHB) continued to collate research queries from Health Canada staff for consideration as part of the DSEN's prioritized research agenda. This year, nine new research queries were forwarded to the DSEN Coordinating Office within Canadian Institute for Health Research (CIHR) for further consideration.
• The DSEN measurement and evaluation framework was approved in August 2010. The partners are working to establish appropriate data gathering strategies to support measurement and reporting of DSEN performance in 2012-13 and 2016-17. HC will pilot its evaluation process for evaluation of DSEN findings when the research is received in 2011/12.
• In January 2011, DSEN partners held a discussion forum for HC staff to seek input on the development of DSEN, its processes and topic areas.
• In April 2010, HC completed the contract for the DSEN draft process map to assist in refining the process and procedures of DSEN.
• In November 2010, the partners presented on DSEN at the Health Canada Science Forum.
• HC remains an active participant in CIHR lead DSEN activities.

The partners continue to engage international partners implementing related initiatives (e.g., EnCepp in EU; Sentinel in U.S) to share best practices and explore opportunities for data

• sharing.
• HC continues to facilitate communication with P/Ts where possible.

• New tools on hold due to delay in new legislation.

To increase industry awareness of their product safety obligations, a stakeholder outreach plan for the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act (CCPSA) was initiated, including: regional outreach activities, a public notice campaign and creation of an industry-targeted website.

We undertook communications activities such as:

• Updates to the Health Canada website, specifically a new section about the CCPSA: www.healthcanada.gc.ca/productsafety which includes news releases, backgrounders, Q&A's, speeches, consultation and guidance documents and regulatory proposals
• Launch of a Public Notice Campaign March 2011 to all national newspapers in Canada to communicate the June 20, 2011 coming-into-force of the CCPSA and key new requirements for industry

In preparation for the coming-into-force of the CCPSA, we prepared draft guidance documents for industry on mandatory reporting and document retention requirements, and held targeted consultations with industry representatives to obtain feedback. In addition, preliminary consultation documents were published on the proposed Exemption Regulations and Administrative Monetary Penalties Regulations under the CCPSA.

The website for providing information on the CCPSA was redesigned to improve access to guidance and consultation documents, including the creation of a subscription service for industry to receive regular updates. There are currently 1116 English and 163 French subscribers to the listserv.

In addition, we updated five industry publications to inform industry of new regulatory requirements and guidelines for certain consumer products:

• Canadian Requirements for Lighters;
• Flammability of Textile Products in Canada;
• Guide to Canadian Consumer Chemical Product Assessment - Second Edition;
• Industry Guide to Canadian Requirements for Children's Jewellery;
• Information to Dealers of Second-hand Products (including children's products)
• Guide to Canadian Requirements for Tents.

Ongoing industry compliance promotion activities were delivered across Canada through presentations to consumer product associations, exhibitions at trade show events, and meetings with individual companies.

With respect to consumer and clinical radiation protection activities under the Radiation Emitting Devices Act (REDA), presentations were made to MEDEC (the national association for the Canadian medical technology industry) to aid industry in their understanding of the REDA and its regulations.

To help increase industry awareness of consumer product safety standards:

• Under the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Standards Council of Canada (SCC), the SCC analysed the consumer product safety standards development activities world-wide.
• Focus groups were held for industry on the International Standards Organization (ISO) Product Safety Guidance Standard. Health Canada is also participating in the ISO Recall Guidance Standard.
• The trilateral (Health Canada - U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission - European Commission) collaboration on the development of an international standard addressing the hazards of corded window covering products was expanded to include Australia and 2 other products areas (baby slings and booster seats).

Health Canada has drafted the following guidelines for industry, on which we will consult with industry and the public in 2011:

• National Guideline on Turbine Noise
• Radiation Protection and Quality Standards in Mammography

We also published the following information in support of industry awareness:

• Notice to Stakeholders - Noise from Machinery Intended for the Workplace. http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/noise-bruit/machinery-machines-eng.php .
• Update of human exposure guidelines to radiofrequency electromagnetic energy: "Health Canada's Radiofrequency Exposure Guidelines (http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/pubs/radiation/radio_guide-lignes_direct-eng.php#sc6

The number of consumer product complaints/incidents have consistently grown, which demonstrates that consumers have an awareness of Health Canada's consumer products complaint mechanism (FY 2006-07, 567 complaints; FY 2007-08, 672 complaints; FY 2008-09, 944 complaints; FY 2009-10, 1102 complaints; FY 2010-2011, 1359 complaints)

Subscriptions to the Consumer Product Safety Recall website increased to over 8000 subscribers in 2010-11. In previous years, the data shows an increase as follows:

• 2006-07 when the website was launched, 0 to 800 subscriptions;
• 2007-08 increase from 800 to 5000 subscriptions;
• 2008-09 increase from 5000 to 6600 subscriptions;
• 2009-10 increase from 6600 to 7844 subscriptions.

The data suggests that the increase in reporting by consumers is linked to the increase in subscriptions to the recall website and is an indicator of increased consumer awareness of risks associated with consumer products.

Public opinion research was completed as part of the overall Health Canada public opinion research plan. While the majority of respondents indicated an understanding of industry obligations and Health Canada's post-market role in product safety, a large proportion (83%) indicated that they believed Health Canada already had mandatory recall authority which is now granted under the new Canada Consumer Product Safety Act.

In order to more effectively raise consumer awareness of product safety issues via social media, Health Canada:

• Developed and launched the Recalls and Safety Alerts mobile application and Widget;
• Encouraged social networking and conversations among consumers through Facebook posts on the Healthy Canadians Fan page;
• Promoted risks or other consumer related facts via the @HealthCanada Twitter account;
• Posted a series of YouTube videos including Canada Consumer Product Safety Act, Wi-fi - Health Canada, Drop-side Cribs - Health Canada and Reusable Bags.

The following documents were published/updated on the Health Canada website:

• Safety of Wi-Fi Equipment (http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/prod/wifi-eng.php)
• Personal Stereo Systems and the Risk of Hearing Loss (http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/life-vie/stereo-baladeur-eng.php);
• Sunglasses (http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/prod/glasses-lunettes-eng.php)

• Cell Phone Towers- includes Youtube video (http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/radiation/cons/stations/index-eng.ph);
• Research on Radiofrequency Energy and Health (http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/radiation/cons/radiofreq/research-recherche-eng.php);
• Wi-Fi Equipment- includes Youtube video(http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/radiation/cons/wifi/index-eng.php);
• Frequently Asked Questions About Wi-Fi (http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/radiation/cons/wifi/faq-eng.php);
• Health Canada Statement on Radiofrequency Energy and Wi-Fi Equipment (http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ahc-asc/media/ftr-ati/_2010/2010_142-eng.php)

To further increase consumer awareness of pesticide product safety issues, Health Canada:

• Delivered seminars to targeted consumer groups/associations (e.g. immigrant consumer groups).
• Developed content and processes to improve transparency of compliance activities and decisions via the internet/website.
• Under the Consumer Information Strategy, activities included outreach programs to increase consumers' awareness and understanding of pesticides; understanding of pesticide regulation and pesticide use and management.
• Participated as exhibitors at 29 events across Canada to raise consumer awareness of pesticide regulation.
• Expanded web content and created multilingual pest notes and factsheets (examples include bedbugs, spray drift in residential areas on personal protective equipment)
• Produced booklet/web content on the safe use of swimming pool and spa chemicals.
• Developed content on how to effectively control rat/mice infestation.
• Continued consumer education efforts on Healthy Lawns information.
• 26 news articles were written and published by News Canada Services to reach local residents across Canada on the importance of proper label use and homemade recipes. (i.e. bedbugs, registered, unregistered, pools, chemical safety etc.).

• Developed industry guidance on the CCPSA mandatory incident reporting provisions
• Established a dedicated division to triage and monitor consumer and industry mandatory incident reports to help identify and analyze emerging trends and hazards with respect to consumer product health and safety
• Established a dedicated risk assessment division, and related policies and procedures, to conduct risk assessment on high priority consumer product incidents
• Developed a new business information system (RADAR) to help track and manage information on consumer and industry incident reports

• Proposed amendments to the Cosmetic Regulations under the Food and Drugs Act - the analysis and recommendation for the first phase of amendments was completed and will be consulted on with the public in 2011
• Personal Care Product Working Group to classify products at the cosmetic-drug interface.
• Improving and creating new IT systems for processing Cosmetic Notifications submitted to Health Canada by industry and flagging unacceptable cosmetic products for compliance action

We also conducted public consultations on changes to the Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist, which is a tool used by Health Canada to communicate to industry ingredients or concentrations of ingredients that are considered to be unacceptable for use in cosmetics.

• Continued implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding with China on the safe manufacturing of consumer products. We signed a Canada-China Letter of Intent for an action plan in September 2010.
• Provided input into the Canada-European Union (EU) Free Trade Agreement (CETA) negotiations.
• Continued ongoing bilateral discussions with the US and quarterly Canada-US-Mexico teleconferences to share best practices and information on emerging trends or concerns related to consumer products in the respective jurisdictions and to discuss and identify opportunities for joint collaboration.
• Created the joint PilotAlignment Initiative to explore harmonization of technical requirements on certain consumer products with US, EU and Australia
• Actively participated on the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Committee on Consumer Policy's Working Party on Consumer Product Safety.
• Established dedicated capacity to international affairs for consumer product safety.

With respect to radiation emitting devices, we collaborated with the following International regulatory partners:

• International Standards Organization (ISO) Working Groups to support recommendations for noise declarations with machinery sold in Canada - Noise from Machinery Intended for the Workplace
• WHO/IARC to develop Monograph 102 on Radiofrequency Fields (includes mobile phones).
• International Committee for Electromagnetic Safety to develop/revise IEEE standards and to develop standard operation procedures for measurement of Radiofrequency energy.
• As a member of the International Electrotechnical Commission, Subcommittee 62B, currently reviewing international standards for mammography and dental X-ray equipment.

After its third introduction to Parliament, the CCPSA received Royal Assent in December 2010. The Order Fixing June 20, 2011 as the Day on which the CCPSA Comes into Force was published in the Canada Gazette, Part II, and the following regulations were created/amended in order to transfer existing prohibitions and regulations from the Hazardous Products Act (HPA) to the CCPSA:

Surface Coating Materials Regulations; Children's Sleepwear Regulations; Restraint Systems and Booster Seats for Motor Vehicles Regulations; Toys Regulations; Candles Regulations; Children's Jewellery Regulations; Face Protectors for Ice Hockey and Box Lacrosse Players Regulations; Ice Hockey Helmet Regulations; Textile Flammability Regulations; Regulations Amending the Asbestos Products Regulations; Regulations Amending the Consumer Chemicals and Containers Regulations, 2001

In addition, new regulations that were published in Canada Gazette, Part II and now fall under the CCPSA:

Regulations Amending the Surface Coating Materials Regulation; Consumer Products Containing Lead (Contact with Mouth) Regulations; Cribs, Cradles and Bassinets Regulations; Phthalates Regulations

In support of modernizing the Radiation Emitting Devices Act (REDA), policy research and analysis has been completed. It was concluded that while legislative modernization would be beneficial in order to have consistent authorities across Health Canada legislation for similar products (e.g. consumer products and medical devices), legislative changes will not be pursued at this time. Work will focus on enhancing the administration and enforcement of the existing legislation. This will include leveraging other legislation/regulations that govern the health effects of radiation emitting devices (e.g. Canada Consumer Product Safety Act for consumer products and the Medical Devices Regulations under the Food and Drugs Act for medical devices); updating existing regulations and creating new regulations to better utilize the existing authorities under REDA; working in partnership with other federal regulators; and making better use of existing resources to manage radiation emitting devices.

We are developing Memorandum of Understanding with other Government departments for REDA assessments:

• MOU with Industry Canada and Department of National Defence in final review.
• MOU in progress with Canadian Air Transport Security Authority, Correctional Services Canada and Transport Canada

Carpets (20 samples- 15% non-compliant ); Carriages and Strollers (9 samples- 100% non-compliant); Cellulose Insulation (10 samples- 20% non-compliant ); Charcoal - warning labels (55 samples- 42% non-compliant ); Children's Sleepwear (9 samples- 33% non-compliant ); Corded Window Coverings (no samples from preliminary survey); Cosmetics: (97 samples- 4% non-compliant ); Cribs and Cradles: (23 samples- 100% non-compliant); Mattresses (futons)- (26 samples: 73% non-compliant ); Teethers (11 samples- 9% non-compliant ); Tents (20 samples- 100% non-compliant); Toys (plush) (27 samples- 41% non-compliant ); Toys (rattles) (29 samples- 10% non-compliant ).

Corrective action was taken on 100% of non-compliant cases. Corrective action can include: recalls, industry communication, stop-sales, education and industry commitments. Regional compliance and enforcement activities were delivered in accordance with work plans, including implementation of the cyclical enforcement projects, compliance promotion, inspections of industry in communities outside of major cities, inspections at customs, and monitoring of recalled products.

Note: Not all establishments are inspected so this does not give an indication of the compliance rates for the entire market for a given product category.

Overall, Health Canada is on track with inspections, sampling and testing for the cyclical enforcement plan. The plan was revised to account for CCPSA implementation and to add new regulations. In addition, an unscheduled survey of hair smoothing products was carried out in response to the introduction of a new type of product on the market and resulting consumer complaints. 22 products were found to contain hazardous levels of formaldehyde and were removed from the market.

Delivered first phase of a consultation program with rental property associations (84 consultations) to determine their level of knowledge related to the safe use of pesticide products and associated regulatory requirements. The associations' mechanisms for reporting pesticide related incidents and degree of communication with their membership was also assessed.

Delivered ten presentations to pest control operators and their technicians in Alberta and Quebec, providing an overview of the regulatory process and introduction to online tools (e.g. label search). Provided information during inspections to 135 vendors and importers/distributors in order to raise awareness related to regulatory requirements. Participated in the annual F/P/T meeting and the annual Association of American Pesticide Control Officials (AAPCO) meeting.

Met with Chinese consumer and vendor associations which facilitated the delivery of seminars to immigrant groups on the safe use of pesticides and associated regulatory requirements. Contributed to ongoing internal discussions related to a policy/regulatory approach for articles treated with pesticides.

Delivered an inspection program targeted at vendors suspected to be selling unregistered international pest control products (e.g. insecticidal chalk, mothballs) and importers/distributors (135 inspections), resulting in 63 enforcement actions. Translated (Chinese) fact sheets were developed and distributed.

Developed and piloted the use of PMRA compliance risk assessment templates and tools to resolve consumer product safety issues. A risk-based targeting guidance document was drafted to facilitate the planning/prioritization of compliance activities.

Initiated a cyclical inspection program to systematically monitor and verify compliance of regulated groups/communities, including those related to consumer pesticides. A new Compliance Results Tracking database for use by compliance officers was implemented, including web reporting capability.

Amended Administrative Monetary Penalties (AMPs) Regulations and published in Canada Gazette I and II, enabling Notices of Violations to be issued for a wider range of violations that were part of the new PCPA legislation in 2006, including violations for Sales and Incident Reporting, and significant work on updating AMPs procedures.

Participated in a pilot to streamline the interface between the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) and Health Canada related to compliance issues through the use of call centres. Worked with CBSA to strengthen oversight at the border, including drafting of an Annex in support of the Umbrella Memorandum of Understanding between Health Canada and CBSA. As part of the Single Window Initiative, initiated participation in the CBSA Pathfinder Project to enable PMRA to receive pesticide importation data collected by CBSA.

Shared compliance and enforcement information with the US EPA and discussed shared issues/concerns related to consumer pesticides. Compliance activities were delivered within Canada as a result of this information sharing (e.g. Health Canada alerted Canadian consumers who had purchased through the internet an unregistered pesticide). Chaired the OECD Expert Group on Compliance, which drafted a final version of the Pesticide Compliance & Enforcement Best Practice Guidance document to be submitted to the OECD Risk Reduction Steering Committee. The document includes guidance on conducting compliance activities related to the distribution, storage, use, and container recycling/disposal of pesticides.

Regulation:

Regulations related to "Enhancing labelling for food allergens, gluten sources and added sulphites" were published in February 2011 in Canada Gazette, Part II (CGII). Completed a regulatory amendment related to the approval of the additive "micocin", an application aimed to prevent listeria growth in ready-to-use meats. Regulatory amendments enabling 14 food additives were published in CGII, and 11 Interim Marketing Authorizations (IMAs) were published in CGI.

Guidance and Policy:

New risk communication material on the microbial safety of fresh produce was published (http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/securit/kitchen-cuisine/safety-salubrite/index-eng.php)

Health Canada's Policy Direction With Respect To Revising Canada's Gluten-Free Labelling Regulations was published. Guidance on the preparation of powdered infant formula in the home and hospital/care settings was published: (http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/securit/kitchen-cuisine/pif-ppn-eng.php).

Completed risk/exposure assessment of the natural toxin Deoxynivalenol (DON) in order to develop a Canadian guideline for the presence of it in Canadian foods

Increased industry knowledge regarding food labelling

Evaluated more than 200 of Health Canada's consumer-oriented Web pages for plain language and formatting, including Food Branch pages. Improved tracking data through the Public Enquiries Centre. Established a central contact centre for consumer phone and email requests for information on food and product safety issues.

Created the inaugural Food Regulatory Advisory Committee (FRAC), with membership across several sectors including Patient/Consumer, Health Professional/Regulatory, Research/Academia, and Industry. Consulted the FRAC on several topics

Improved international collaboration in addressing common import risks

Continued industry engagement on proposed risk management strategies to reduce exposure of the natural toxin Ochratoxin A (OTA) in food.

Developed and presented the Codex discussion paper on the management of DON in the food supply at the 5th session of the Codex Committee on Contaminants in Food. Made use of international chemical liaison groups for food safety for information sharing and issue identification. Established regular forums with like-minded regulators on emerging issues

Launched/continued marketing initiatives for Children's Health and Safety, Safe and Informed Consumers, Hazardcheck and other initiatives. Improved consolidation and tracking data through the Public Enquiries Centre. Established a central contact centre for consumer phone and email requests for information on food and product safety issues. Launched social media platforms, including a new Recalls and Safety Alerts mobile app and a cross-departmental widget for consumers. Developed a 'foodborne illness' section for Healthy Canadians, as well as revision of Web pages and It's Your Health articles on food safety.

Five (5) risk profiles were developed - Salmonella in fresh Tomatoes; Ochratoxin A in Cereals and Cereal Products; Salmonella in Spices; Melamine in Imported Milk Ingredients; and Escherichia coli 0157:H7 in Baby Spinach. The draft reports, which are a compilation of scientific information on specific food hazard combinations, are at various stages of completion.

Development of novel platforms for testing and detection of pathogens such as Listeria, Shigella and Campylobacter. Conducted targeted surveys on microbiological and chemical hazards for which over 25,395 samples were collected resulting in 59,254 different microbiological and chemical tests being performed.

The analysis of the results of ten (10) targeted surveys on chemical hazards were completed: Arsenic speciation in rice and pear products; Aflatoxins in dried figs and dried dates ; Undeclared Allergens in baby food; Bisphenol A in infant food and formula; Melamine/Pesticides and Metals in milk based and soy based products; Food colours in manufactured foods; OTA/'DON in selected foods; Pesticide/Metals in fresh fruit and vegetables; Pesticide/Metals in dried tea; Fining agents in wine

• The analysis of the results of five (5) targeted surveys on microbiological hazards was completed: Bacterial Pathogens and Indicators of Faecal Contamination in Leafy Green Vegetables in the Canadian Market (imported and domestic, conventional and organic, pre-packaged fresh-cut); Bacterial Pathogens and Indicators of Faecal Contamination in Fresh Leafy Herbs in the Canadian Market (imported and domestic); Bacterial Pathogens in Cantaloupes in the Cnidarians Market (imported and domestic whole, imported fresh -cut); Bacterial Pathogens and Indicators of Faecal Contamination in Tomatoes in the Canadian Market (imported and domestic, conventional and organic); Salmonella in Peanuts and Peanut-derived Products in the Canadian Market (imported and domestic)

Improved international collaboration in addressing common import risks

For the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable (FFV) Sector, CFIA implemented changes to food safety monitoring programs focussing its inspection activities on high risk sector of the industry, such as packers and re-packers of fresh leafy vegetables, herbs and green onions.

Enhanced engagement with international regulatory counterparts to advance food safety information exchange and inform risk management approaches.

Signed MOU to facilitate exploration of approaches for rapid exchange of information and handling of food safety emergencies with the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine of the People's Republic of China (AQSIQ).

Increased industry knowledge regarding food labelling

A public consultation to receive feedback on proposed requirements to enhance the safety of imported foods was conducted. The feedback, received both through on-line submissions and during face to face sessions held in five cities across the country, was constructive. It will be used to inform proposed regulations.

• 27 labeling investigations related to Product of Canada were conducted. Government of Canada committed to review the "Product of Canada" guidelines to ensure they continue to meet the needs of both consumers and Canadian industries. Consultations ended in September 2010 on the need to exempt imported sugar, salt and vinegar when making a "Product of Canada" claim on foods that contain those ingredients and the possibility to remove qualifiers from the "Made in Canada" claim. The Agency is analyzing the information gathered and will post the results on its website.

• Increased verification of industry food safety measures

Delivered the following training to inspection staff: Microbiological Sampling, Introduction to Fresh Produce Safety, Understanding Food Allergens, Food Safety Investigation. Continued the update of existing and development of new training material in support of FSAP activities implementation.

In the non-federally registered sector, a total of 803 inspections were conducted, in the four identified priority areas of greatest risk (produce, mycotoxins in cereal, imported ingredients, undeclared allergens):

68 related to Microbial Pathogens in Spices; 15 related to Microbial Pathogens and Patulin in Pasteurized Apple Juice and Cider; 37 related to Pathogens in RTE Fresh Cut Vegetables; 39 related to Pathogens in Sprouts; 90 related to Allergens and Salmonella in Domestic and Imported Chocolate; 46 related to Microbial Pathogens and Patulin in Unpasteurized Apple Juice and Cider; 36 related to Alfatoxin and Salmonella in Imported Nuts, Peanuts and Peanut Butter; 472 related to Allergen Controls at Importers of non-federally registered foods.

• Improved ability to monitor and control importation of food

Completion of Phase I of IM/IT enhancements, by implementing foundational elements which will support applications for enhancing importer identification and imported product tracking.

54 Border Blitz inspections, 61 Post-Entry Import Verifications, and 367 import surveillance activities were conducted.

Increased # of employees working on FSAP by 10% of which 36% are new to the Agency. By the end of 2010-11, the CFIA managed over 200 food recall incidents, and conducted 4668 food safety investigations.

In 2010-11, the CFIA efficiently managed 131 public warnings for Class I recalls. All warnings were issued within the 24 hours following the declaration of a warning. Enhanced awareness of the recall process through e-mail notifications of all Class 2 and 3 undeclared allergen recalls are sent directly to subscribers.

A consumer-friendly booklet - "Common Food Allergies - A Consumer's Guide to Managing the Risks" - was published, containing key information on the most common food allergens. Past food safety issues have highlighted the importance of gathering regular feedback from Canadians on food safety, food recalls and confidence in Canada's food safety system. Results have helped inform outreach initiatives and policies related to food safety. It helps provide the Agency with a better understanding of consumers' awareness, attitudes and behaviours in terms of food safety, and helps ensure communications material is consistent with the needs of Canadians. Targeted POR conducted in February of 2011 revealed that Canadians' confidence in Canada's food safety system noticeably increased since 2007-08.

CFIA also launched the Consumer Association Roundtable, which ensures that consumers (target population) have a voice in the food safety continuum.

Recent POR findings show that consumers look to a variety of media to obtain their information. Among those preferred: social media, televised and print news. In 2010-11, the CFIA began making information readily available through additional email alert notifications (i.e. Class II and III recalls), Twitter and Facebook. By using social media tools, the CFIA has diminished the need to search for this information on its website. However, traffic to the CFIA website does remain consistent, with a noticeable spike in activity during times of an outbreak (i.e. Listeria).

By the end of 2010-11, the CFIA had 47,500 subscribers to the recall and allergy alert email notification service, and over 1,800 Twitter followers. Seven targeted survey reports were posted to the CFIA website. These present information on the findings of CFIA's targeted surveys regarding the occurrence of contaminants in the food supply.

Four microbiology: (Bacterial Pathogens and Indicators of Faecal Contamination in Domestic Unpasteurized Apple Cider / Juice; Bacterial Pathogens and Indicators of Faecal Contamination in Leafy Green Vegetables; Bacterial Pathogens and Indicators of Faecal Contamination in Tomatoes and Cantaloupes; Hepatitis A Virus in Green Onions and Strawberries)

Three chemistry: (Aflatoxin in Dried Figs and Dried Dates; Bisphenol-A in Infant Food and Formula; Ochratoxin A and Deoxynivalenol in Selected Foods)

Emerging and re-emerging food-borne, environmental and zoonotic infectious diseases outbreaks are responded to and controlled

Stakeholders are knowledgeable of research and tools pertaining to food-borne, environmental and zoonotic infectious diseases

• Capability to perform the latest generation laboratory fingerprinting method (MLVA) was certified for PulseNet Canada (NML) by US CDC in Atlanta.
• PulseNet Canada (NML) now offers E. coli MLVA laboratory service to all PulseNet Canada members.
• Genomics has been used to research and develop a novel laboratory fingerprinting method for Salmonella Enteritidis. Current laboratory methods for this foodborne pathogen do not always help support outbreak investigations and identification of contaminated food sources.
• CIPARS integrated surveillance of antimicrobial resistance in the foodchain continued sampling in 7 provinces. In addition to the major domestic commodities (beef, chicken, pork), sampling included selected imported meats (e.g. lamb), domestic and imported seafood (e.g. shrimp), and, through an agreement with CFIA, selected imported produce was also tested. The knowledge synthesis and translation approach to prioritizing targets for surveillance of antimicrobial resistance in seafood was completed. Molecular characterization of isolates continued for retail sampling and comparison with isolates from other CIPARS segments (farm, abattoir, human).
• C-EnterNet integrated surveillance of enteric pathogens continued in the original sentinel site in Ontario and a second site was initiated in British Columbia. In addition to sampling in core domestic commodities (beef, chicken, pork), retail sampling included high risk imported products including leafy greens and berries.

Increased sustainable capacity for molecular characterization of foodborne pathogens will allow for rapid and accurate identification of bacteria associated with outbreaks in Canada. An on-going assessment of new molecular characterization methods for differentiation of foodborne pathogens is being carried out in order to improve accuracy and turn around time. Key pathogen serotypes have been prioritized for molecular characterization using a comparison of the LFZ's data for bacteria from non-human sources with the NML's data for human sources.

• Supported FPT pathogen reduction efforts in addressing food-borne disease associated risks through the application of a risk prioritisation tool within case studies. This approach is unique because it includes considerations of economic, perception, social criteria and human health risks. This tool is targeted for future implementation by CFIA.
• PHAC continued their dialogue with Provinces and Territories to expand the capacity of the web-based Outbreak Summary Reporting System, which was developed with extensive provincial/territorial input. The system allows standardised dissemination of the results of disease outbreak investigations. An Enteric Module of the application was launched in Prince Edward Island in July 2010 and in Newfoundland and Labrador in October 2010.

Engagement of risk assessment stakeholders

Databases created/improved against plan:

The Canadian Hospitals Injury Reporting and Prevention Program (CHIRPP) database was improved at each stage of surveillance, beginning with data collection through to analysis and dissemination.

A new data element was created in CHIRPP to track the proportion of consumer-product related injuries. The most recent CHIRPP data available (all ages) show 48% of CHIRPP cases to be consumer product-related (compared to 45% in the previous cycle). For the target age groups 0-4 years, 0-9 years and 0-18 years the percentages are 55% vs. 53%, 55% vs. 52% and 50% vs. 48%, respectively.

The Canadian Coroner and Medical Examiner Database (CCMED) was developed to obtain further details on investigated deaths to build evidence base for prevention.

Methodological fine-tuning of the CCMED database to optimize identification of consumer product-related deaths.

Assessment of enhanced surveillance of helmet use/compliance in winter sports (in cooperation with HECS). The Canadian Longitudinal Survey on Aging was expanded/improved against the plan

CCMED: Coroners' Database development completed, and preliminary analysis of data underway. Established CCMED Working Group

Other progress:

Initial phases of surveillance system modernization underway to facilitate ease of product-related injury data collection.

Winter sport helmet pilot study - Phase 1 of data collection completed, analysis underway. Done in cooperation with HECS. Completion of falls surveillance pilot study in BC. Organized a stakeholder meeting in cooperation with HECS and SafeKids Canada to host: A Dialogue on Poisoning Prevention in Canada.

Knowledge translation through presentations at national and regional injury prevention and child health conferences. 5 new reports, briefs and posters on product related injuries.

Data/reports to key stakeholders

Report from Carbonear General Hospital feasibility study on risk assessment of consumer product related injury

Review relevant to falls-related injuries. Risk assessment of activity-limiting injury in the Canadian Population Longitudinal Health Survey 1994-2006. Risk assessment of incidence of injury associated with immigration status and length of immigration in Canada. Risk assessment of risk factors for unintentional injury in Canada. Risk assessment of All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) related injuries

Canadian Longitudinal Survey on Aging (CLSA)

Completed: Protocol to Study Consumer Product and Falls Related Injuries in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging. Completed: Literature review relevant to falls-related injuries (narrative review, review of reviews and a systematic environmental scan).

Completed: Injury and Consumer Product Related Falls Module developed and approved for implementation.

Sentinel Centre Consumer Product Related Injury Risk Assessment (CPRIRA).Meeting held to seek consensus on adapting a current Emergency Room surveillance program to include product-related injury data collection.

Memorandum of Agreement established with Kingston General Hospital.

• Data linkage between National Trauma Registry, National Ambulatory Care Reporting System and Discharge Abstract Database initiated for injury risk assessment analysis. Completion of best practices in injury prevention for seniors in residential centers, including the principles of effective practices; Completion of best practices in injury prevention interventions (snow and ice and other topics).

Increased knowledge of post-market drug safety and effectiveness to inform decisions

Increased capacity in Canada to address priority research on post-market drug safety and effectiveness

Also see: DSEN, Health Canada, Health Products, Targeted Oversight

• The DSEN Steering Committee (DSEN SC) was established by CIHR in September 2010. Membership includes senior executives from federal and provincial governments, national organizations and from the research, health care provider and patient communities. The DSEN SC met twice in 2010-11, establishing their TOR and a first agenda for DSEN research.
• The DSEN Coordinating Office (DSEN CO) established an interim Science Advisory Committee to identify research projects among the list of questions posed by decision makers (DSEN Queries) since 2009/10 that could be initiated in 2011-12. Eight DSEN Queries were identified as being researchable in 2011-12 by DSEN collaborating researchers identified through funding opportunities launched in 2010-11.
• CIHR launched the competition to establish the first of three DSEN Collaborating Centres in September 2010. One application was received and deemed meritorious in Jan 2011, allowing DSEN to provide $17.5 M over 5 years to the Canadian Network for Observational Drug Studies (CNODES). CNODES brings together 12 principal investigators and co-investigators and 56 collaborators, representing investigators in eight provinces.
• In February2011, DSEN launched two additional funding opportunities to create five research teams in two new Collaborating Centres, one for Prospective Studies and a second for Network Meta-Analysis and Innovative RCT Designs. This funding opportunity closed June 1, 2011 and the meritorious applicants will be funded for up to $5.6 M over three years in September 2011.
• DSEN held two Knowledge translation events in 2010-2011. The DSEN collaborative innovation forum on Research Methodologies in Real World Drug Safety and Comparative Effectiveness was held in November 2010. This event brought together experts in the regulatory, academic, and industry communities in a neutral environment to engage in discussions relating to research methods applicable in the areas of drug safety and comparative effectiveness. In March 2011, DSEN held its inaugural Knowledge Translation Forum on Post-Market Drug Safety and Effectiveness, bringing together researchers and knowledge users to discuss emerging real word safety and effectiveness research on drugs. This forum focussed on sharing of preliminary results from the 14 DSEN Catalyst Grants funded in 2009-2010. Participant feedback showed > 85% of participants rated the events as good to excellent, clearly meeting the stated objectives and having relevant, comprehensive and practical content.

Federal inspections show that 98% of tobacco retailers in Alberta and Saskatchewan are in compliance on sales to youth. (Note: in 2009 retailer compliances rates of 84.3% were based on the Evaluation of Retailers' Behaviour Towards Certain Youth Access-to-Tobacco Restrictions Survey, which included all Provinces. This survey has been discontinued.)

99% of tobacco products inspected are in compliance with labelling requirements.

95% of samples analysed are in compliance with Cigarette Ignition Propensity regulations.

Compliance measures with the implementation of the Cracking Down on Tobacco Marketing Aimed at Youth Act did result in 4 warning letters being sent to manufacturers for packages of little cigar products with less than the minimum 20 units.

• Enhanced partnership arrangement with Akwesasne Mohawk Police.
• Leading the Canadian Delegation in preparation and participation in the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Controls negotiations for a Protocol in illicit tobacco.

PS leads the Canadian Delegation in the preparation and participation to negotiate a global Protocol to reduce illicit tobacco which takes place in Geneva. Canada participated in two intersessional working groups in 2010-11, in support of Protocol negotiations. The next negotiating session is scheduled for March 2012.

Criminal Intelligence Operations
&
Technical Policing Operations

• Provide regular reports on the illicit tobacco situation to Finance and Health Canada, including data on seizures, organized crime involvement and trends.  Side bar reports and presentations to other partners and key Ministerial entities upon request, such as the Government of Canada Task Force on Illicit Tobacco, the Senior Revenue Officials Conference and the Interprovincial Investigations Conference.  Attend regular meetings to brief the Department of Finance on the illicit tobacco market.
• Improve border security through the use of sophisticated technology which permits detection and monitoring of illegal border intrusions, resulting in vital intelligence.
• Co-host the 2011 Joint U.S./Canada Tobacco Diversion Workshop with American and Canadian agencies to be held in spring 2011.  Participate in information sharing sessions with American Law Enforcement partners.  To give presentations at law enforcement courses/workshops in Canada and the U.S. on the subject of contraband tobacco.

1. Regular reports on the illicit tobacco situation were provided to Finance and Health Canada. Side bar reports and presentations provided to other key partners and key Ministerial entities upon request, such as the Government of Canada Task Force on Illicit Tobacco, the Senior Revenue Officials Conference and the Interprovincial Investigations Conference. The Tobacco Analysts also regularly brief and attend meetings with the Department of Finance.
2. Continued border security through the use of sophisticated technology which permits detection and monitoring of illegal border intrusions, resulting in the collection of vital intelligence. The RCMP increased and enhanced ability to monitor movements of persons, vehicles, shipping containers and other packages in order to determine patterns of operations of persons involved in smuggling of contraband products. Finally, the RCMP deployed tools and techniques to support criminal operations which provided intelligence, interdiction activities and evidence in criminal investigations. There was an increased level of support provided to the investigation of organized crime groups that are involved in the smuggling of contraband tobacco.
3. There was no Joint U.S. /Canada Tobacco Diversion Workshop in 2010 due to the economic recession, however, American and Canadian authorities are preparing the 2011 Workshop that will be held in Ottawa September 13-15. This event brings together members of Canadian and American law enforcement and regulatory agencies who have a vested interest in the illicit tobacco market whether it pertains to smuggling, counterfeit, stolen or other illegal activities. In recent events, the TDW has also included a number of international guests as participants and speakers also involved in tobacco enforcement efforts. The workshop addresses the growing illicit tobacco market and its cross-border flow through an integrated policing and intelligence sharing approach.
4. The Second Progress Report for the implementation of the Contraband Tobacco Enforcement Strategy will be released soon, and will be made public and available online at the RCMP Customs and Excise website.
5. The FTCS supported criminal intelligence analysts for tobacco have attended several training courses regarding contraband tobacco as both students and presenters; they include:

   Interprovincial Investigations Conference: The aim is to develop, increase and maintain cooperation among all those who are involved in combating the contraband tobacco market by providing current information and contacts in other jurisdictions.

   IBET Analyst/Intelligence Officer Workshop: This provided an overview on Crime trends, technology strategy and regional overviews.

   RCMP Customs and Excise Investigators Workshop: The purpose of the workshop is to ensure that C&E investigators from across Canada are aware of ongoing National issues which impact the program, including contraband tobacco, counter proliferation, firearms smuggling and the national program evaluation.

   Other Meetings: Facilitated meetings with tobacco analysts as well as meetings between the RCMP, US Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Agency and United States Border Patrol.

6. In 2010, the RCMP seized approximately 782,000 cartons/unmarked bags of contraband cigarettes. This represented a decrease of approximately 20% compared to the 2009 seizure of approximately 975,000 cartons/unmarked bags. The RCMP also seized approximately 5,300 kilograms of raw leaf tobacco, 43,000 kilograms of fine cut tobacco and 142,000 cigars in 2010.

• Prioritize recovery for fines ordered under cigarette contraband and tobacco sales to youth convictions.
• Increase the number of fines satisfied by a minimum of 18 percent.
• Continue to prioritize the most effective and least costly recovery methods.
• Prioritize payment of fines over incarceration, but enhance enforcement measures when appropriate.
• Increase registration of outstanding fines in CRA's Set-off program by 20%.
• Recover against estates whenever possible.

1. Due to the substantial increase in policing and border control efforts, the number of convictions for offences related to cigarette contraband and illegal sales of tobacco product related fines have increased and the inventory of tobacco-related fines is now at 1036 files of which 623 are solely contraband. The volume of tobacco related fines has increased dramatically. The recoverable amount for these fines is at $25.2M, an increase of 38%. Emphasis has been to put these fines in set-off when there are no assets to seize.
2. Approximately $5.2M has been recovered for all outstanding fines as of YE 2011, a decrease of 13% over the previous year. Over 1,600 files were settled, a decrease of 3.8%. This concerns all fines, not only tobacco related.
3. The Set-off process with CRA has accounted for almost $900K in recovered fines, an increase of 11 % over the previous year (this amount is included in point # 1. Set-off is one of the most cost-effective methods of recovery.
4. Over 8,000 fine recovery interventions were registered during this period and 151 individuals were incarcerated for failure or refusal to pay their fines during this period, of which 17 opted to pay their fines in lieu of remaining in custody.
5. Our target of increasing by 20.4% the registration of outstanding fines for set-off has been reached. 6,041 fines are registered compared to 4,816 last year, for a recovery potential of almost $22M vs $12M last year, an increase of 45.5%.
6. Our volume is at over 20,000 fines. Of these, over 11,600 are drug related fines for which only 57 are over $10K.
7. Of 2,831 payments received via set-off, an increase of 20% over last year. The majority of fines fully satisfied were in the $1 to $10K range. This inventory comprised of fines dating back to 1996 for which offenders could not be located as well as small fines in the $1.00 to $1000. range. Reduction of this inventory will permit units to concentrate their efforts on larger fines.

• Systems adjustments and maintenance to reflect the legislative changes that affect rates, reporting and refunds as well as program changes to include duty-free shops and ships stores.

• Verify Export Activity
• Ensure compliance with legislative requirements imposed on the manufacture, possession and sale of tobacco products in Canada.
• Support CBSA and RCMP enforcement activity, and work with stakeholders to monitor and assess the effectiveness of measures used to reduce contraband tobacco.
• Provide the Department of Finance with advice to assist in the development of policy and the determination of the magnitude and timing of future tax increases.
• Funding formula allocation (Justice Canada, and Public Works and Government Services Canada).

• Processed returns and payments to ensure correctness; maintained systems and reporting capabilities to meet program requirements.
• Inspected and monitored shipments of tobacco to be exported from Canada; maintained recording system.
• Performed audits and regulatory reviews of tobacco licensees to ensure compliance with legislative requirements.
• Provided technical information as well as expert testimony and affidavits; participated in a number of committees dealing with the monitoring and control of tobacco products including those dealing with inter-provincial issues.
• Met with the Department of Finance as required; provided industry and product information..

Funding formula allocation

1.1 Risk Assessment

2.2 Conventional Border
Internal Services
Loss of Duty Free Licensing

• Provide advice to Department of Finance on matters that will impact the future tax structure on tobacco.
• Monitor and report on the contraband tobacco situation in Canada.
• Expand cooperation with international and national law enforcement partners.
• Collection of the tobacco duties imposed on personal importations of returning Canadians.

• Attended regular meetings with Department of Finance and partners to discuss and serve as a reference for questions on tobacco enforcement issues.
• Provided monthly analysis of the national contraband situation by compiling reports received from the Regions.  Partnered with RCMP in a joint annual risk assessment regarding the nature and extent of the tobacco contraband market. Coordinated contraband tobacco intelligence collection and development with the Regions. The capabilities of our officers and analysts to infiltrate the marketplace, gather intelligence, liaise with other agencies and process their files has resulted in: an increase in targets for examination, for both companies and individuals; identification of indicators and modus operandi not previously known; identification of emerging trends and threats and the sharing of same within the regions and our domestic and international partners. 
• Actively participated in Joint Force Operations with law enforcement partners across the Regions.   Developed and maintained contact with international tobacco enforcement personnel. 
• In 2010-2011, CBSA front line officers continue to collect duties and taxes on tobacco importations.  Many years previous, personal importations of tobacco were exempted from the payment of duties and taxes.  The exemption no longer applies.  Duties and taxes are collected at Ports of Entry on all personal importations of tobacco.