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."
