Improving Ontario’s Response To Livestock And Poultry Diseases

McGuinty Government Protecting Animal and Human Health

Ontario is moving to protect animal and human health, and the economic viability of the livestock and poultry sector, by reducing the impact of animal diseases.

The proposed Animal Health Act, 2009 was introduced in the Ontario legislature today. The legislation, if passed, would:

• provide measures to assist in the prevention, detection, response to and control of animal diseases and other hazards to protect the livestock and poultry sector
• require the reporting of specific animal diseases to the Chief Veterinarian for Ontario
• enable the use of quarantine orders, surveillance zones and animal health control area orders to help control the spread of any detected disease or hazard
• support a future traceability framework for the quick identification and control of disease and food safety hazards.

QUOTES

This proposed legislation would protect both animal and human health and would enable us to respond to disease situations promptly. Protecting livestock and poultry is important for the economic well-being of the industry and for all of Ontario."
— Leona Dombrowsky, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

“The proposed legislation allows us to better prepare for and respond to animal health issues.  This would be yet another step in strengthening Ontario’s animal health system, which benefits us all.”
— Dr. Deb Stark, Chief Veterinarian for Ontario

“The Ontario Livestock and Poultry Council members are very pleased that the Ontario government is moving forward with animal health legislation.  We feel the proposed Act will provide the provincial government and the livestock and poultry industry with the required tools to reduce the likelihood of a major disease occurrence and assist with controlling its spread if one should occur.”
— Gord Coukell, Chair, Ontario Livestock and Poultry Council

“OVMA welcomes and supports the Ontario government in proposing a modern framework for the protection and promotion of animal health in Ontario.  As veterinary practitioners, we are front-line health care professionals committed to protecting Ontario’s agri-food industry, animal and human health from the negative impacts associated with animal-borne diseases through effective disease surveillance and detection, and improved traceability and biosecurity measures. “     
— Dr. Jim Hysen, President, Ontario Veterinary Medical Association

QUICK FACTS

• Ontario’s livestock and poultry sectors generate more than $4.45 billion in cash receipts each year.
• Ontario is home to Canada’s largest poultry industry, second largest swine and dairy industries and third largest beef industry. 

LEARN MORE

Read about the proposed Animal Health Act, 2009.

For more information:

Kelly Synnott, Minister's Office, 416-326-6439
Brent Ross, Communications Branch, 416-326-9342