I wouldn't say it's a failure, but I would say that there is a lack of application and follow-up. In Quebec, the policy on the protection of riverbanks, shore areas and flood plains defines a certain area where there cannot be any agriculture. The municipalities must incorporate this regulation into their zoning or housing development regulations. There often isn't any follow-up. So there isn't enough funding to send inspectors to those places to see if the policy is being respected. The policy itself is excellent. But there isn't enough money in the budgets to oversee the application of the regulations.
On November 28th, 2012. See this statement in context.