Last week CNGF was made aware that Option 2C for the import of male small ruminants from any premises in the USA, which requires the importing premises to be enrolled in the Scrapie flock certification program (SFCP), was under review by CFIA and has been put on hold until further notice. (Requirements for Small Ruminants Imported From the United States for Breeding, Domestic or Captive Purposes-TAHD-DSAT-IE-2007-5-6)
CNGF has contacted Scrapie Canada and is currently seeking further information.
According to Scrapie Canada, “the issue stems from instances where animals are imported under Option 2C and importers subsequently left the SFCP, were removed from the program due to non-compliance or sold imported animals without necessary permits. Scrapie Canada has met its obligation to report such instances to the CFIA, which has left the CFIA having to conduct post-import follow-up. This is a significant grey area between import requirements and program requirements, one that is now under review.”
Scrapie Canada is concerned that this decision was made unilaterally and without industry consultation and have contacted: CFIA’s Senior Veterinary Office, the Senior Staff Veterinarian of the Domestic Disease Control Section and the Director General of the Animal Health Directorate.
Individuals who have questions have been directed by CFIA to contact their local animal health district office: https://inspection.canada.ca/about-cfia/contact-a-cfia-office-by-telephone/eng/1313255382836/1313256130232
CNGF is continuing to investigate and plans to be involved in the review process to identify additional import opportunities.
