We strongly support the creation and maintenance of the Canadian foot-and-mouth disease vaccine bank. We ask the government and government agencies to remain vigilant with respect to foreign animal disease prevention and preparedness. This includes the Canada Border Services Agency, to enhance preventative measures such as surveillance, awareness and education to all entry points in Canada; the CFIA, to improve the efficiency of screening of imported feed ingredients, and rapid testing protocols and procedures to resolve suspected cases found on our farms; and AAFC, to create a framework to further the investment into biosecurity enhancements and research to be utilized throughout the value chain.
The Ontario swine industry has a proven record of continuous improvement and investment in biosecurity measures over the years at the farm level. Biosecurity in the swine industry continues to evolve as new methods are adopted. Strategic investment in new research infrastructure is key to developing improved practices and solutions with respect to emerging animal health challenges, the development of new vaccines, and biosecurity measures that could be applied across the value chain.
When it comes to on-farm biosecurity, putting preventative measures in place to keep animals healthy has been a long-standing and successful practice for Ontario hog farms. Any new regulations or programs related to biosecurity need to be flexible in design to allow producers to adapt through their farming operations without compromising biosecurity, effectiveness and industry competitiveness. If the past few years have taught us anything, it is that we cannot afford to be complacent, and we need to stay vigilant.