STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER

August 8, 2003
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister today welcomed the decision by the United States to re-open the border to Canadian beef:

"I am very pleased to announce that the United States has recognized the safety of Canadian beef and cattle by initiating a phased re-opening of the border.

Hunter-harvested animals will be permitted entry into the U.S. immediately. Boxed beef will be permitted entry shortly thereafter, and not later than the end of August. This represents a significant first step in resuming trade in beef and cattle. At the same time, an expedited process will be set in place to articulate the rules to allow for the resumption of the importation of live animals into the U.S. In addition, the Honourable Lyle Vanclief, along with his American and Mexican counterparts will work with the International Office of Epizootics and other partners to establish a new international standard for the treatment of countries expressing very low incidences of BSE.

The decision by the United States to reopen the border is directly attributable to Canada's rigorous, science-based investigation and response to the discovery of a single case of BSE. In addition, it reflects the aggressive measures implemented by Canada over a number of years to reduce the risk of spread and amplification of BSE, a factor recognized by the international panel of experts that reviewed Canada's investigation of the single case of BSE. More generally, this decision is testimony to the high standards to which the Canadian beef industry operates.

Many people on the Canadian side of the border have worked tirelessly to achieve this outcome. I would like to thank Minister Vanclief, who has shown leadership with his provincial colleagues in pursuing a resolution to this national issue. I would also thank the Premiers and the members of Canada's cattle industry for their cooperation. I look forward to continuing to work with our partners to achieve a timely completion of the process for the importation of live animals - a critically important component of Canada's beef exports. I would also like to thank Canadian consumers for standing behind the Canadian beef industry.

Finally, I would urge other countries that have closed their market to Canadian beef and other products to follow the leadership of the United States and take steps immediately to re-open their borders.

Further details will be forthcoming in the days ahead, as detailed importation procedures and consultation processes are finalized."

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PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555