There was a lengthy discussion about traceability during the resolution portion of the Saskatchewan Cattle Association's annual general meeting in Saskatoon last Thursday.
A couple of weeks ago, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) paused the publication of proposed traceability changes following a backlash from cow-calf producers – many who attended public meetings. Added reporting of cattle movement, red tape and complicated rules are among the many complaints levelled against the CFIA.
A few resolutions were passed but the most basic one stated "be it resolved that the Saskatchewan Cattle Association work with government and industry regarding traceability regulations to ensure they are effective, reliable and not burdensome to producers".
"The direction was very unanimous – we need some CFIA reform," Ross said. "We need to have CFIA moved under (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada). We want them to have some accountability. We would like them to understand commerce and our business and for no better terms, we want to see people that have had a little poop on their boots and understand our businesses. There was strong, unanimous support in regards to that and until that happens in regaining that trust, traceability is something that's got to stay on the back burner."
He wishes a representative from the CFIA was able to attend the AGM to answer questions about the regulations. Groups, including the Canadian and Saskatchewan Cattle Associations, have been active on social media addressing misinformation about the proposed rule changes.
"There is a lot of confusion…even here today talking about the regulations on whether it's group movements or individual movements. We see that confusion all across our industry right now and we're seeing that on social media and it's got people spooked and riled up and I understand that. So, if there's confusion, we need to sort that out."
Ross explained the backlash comes at a time when producers are enjoying high cattle prices and using that income to pay down debt or re-invest in their operation.
"We're scared of losing that and scared of over-regulation," he added. "We don't want regulation to be onerous. We don't want regulation to be costly and so it's got to be right for our industry. Even though we got to be prepared in (the event of) a disease outbreak so that we can isolate fast and resume trade if borders close because of that disease and so that's also important as well, but it has to be right."
Producers are also unhappy with the CFIA over delays in compensation for destroying herds that were exposed to diseases such as Bovine Tuberculosis. In some cases, they've had to feed cattle for six months without an income, Ross said.
"Those have to change when were in a situation like this."
(With files from Neil Billinger, CJWW)
