AGRI Committee Report
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RECOMMENDATION 1
That an independent commission of inquiry be struck with the mandate to investigate the 2004 avian influenza outbreak in British Columbia. To prevent the reoccurrence of outbreaks, the commission must review the effectiveness of the emergency preparedness and implementation strategies that were deployed in British Columbia, regarding zoonotic diseases.
RECOMMENDATION 2
That using the 2004 avian influenza outbreak in British Columbia as a benchmark, the Auditor General of Canada be asked to audit the effectiveness of various emergency preparedness strategies related to animal diseases, with an emphasis on strategies related to zoonotic diseases.
RECOMMENDATION 3
That the Canadian Food Inspection Agency establish a “Special Animal Disease Response Team,” comprising CFIA, provincial and local experts, that can be quickly deployed with appropriate well-maintained equipment, and that is responsible for overseeing practices of emergency preparedness plans and procedures on a regular basis.
RECOMMENDATION 4
That the Canadian Food Inspection Agency be required to present a cost-benefit analysis, by the end of 2005, on the need to have an increased number of Containment Level 3 facilities in Canada.
RECOMMENDATION 5
That the Canadian Food Inspection Agency must ensure that its euthanasia techniques are compatible with internationally recognized humane best practices, and that its personnel conduct euthanasia exercises to remain well trained for carrying out these techniques.
RECOMMENDATION 6
That, in its review of the existing compensation program under the Health of Animals Act, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency must ensure fairness and consistency among all types of production. In recognizing the intrinsic value of the genetic material so important to some industries, flexibility must be allowed in compensation. The Agency, in consultation with the affected industries, should also consider how equitable compensation might be offered for forgone income, and for one-time losses.
RECOMMENDATION 7
That any industry recommendations/actions for a pre-emptive cull to limit the potential spread of an outbreak of animal disease must be submitted to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. The Agency, in consultation with the affected provinces and industries, must be proactive and responsible for authorizing and supervising any such pre-emptive cull.