Cattle sector seeks workable path forward on traceability

""Quite simply, we didn't think that the regulations hit the mark in really addressing the risk with a reasonable cost or burden," says Fulton, noting concerns about duplication with existing provincial systems, such as livestock inspection in Western Canada."

""We see it as a requirement for managing animal disease events," he says, but adds that current gaps-such as technology limitations, tag retention issues, and cumbersome reporting systems-must be addressed in a more practical way."

""There's lots of different rationale... to use these tags for management purposes," he says, pointing to on-farm record-keeping, market assurance, and programme participation as tangible benefits already being realized by some producers."

""The goal is to ensure the industry can manage it at the speed of the disease," particularly in the event of high-impact outbreaks such as foot-and-mouth disease."

The Canadian Cattle Association opposes the government's proposed livestock traceability regulations, arguing they are unworkable for producers. Tyler Fulton, CCA president, emphasizes that the proposed framework fails to adequately address risks without imposing unreasonable costs. Concerns include duplication with existing provincial systems and technology limitations. The CCA advocates for an industry-led, risk-based approach to improve traceability. Fulton highlights the importance of electronic identification for on-farm record-keeping and disease management, stressing the need for practical solutions to enhance usability and efficiency in the industry.

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