The CFA welcomes further discussion on Bill C-474

March 17, 2010 - The Canadian Federation of Agriculture looks forward to discussing the impact of genetically modified (GM) seed in light of Bill C-474, An Act respecting the Seeds Regulations (analysis of potential harm), which would assess the harm to export markets before the sale of any new GM seed is permitted, thereby preventing the closure of international markets to Canadian farmers.

The CFA recognizes the value in the enhancement of market assessments of  current and prospective trading partners.  The GM-crop types available to Canadian farmers have all undergone a full scientifc food, feed and environmental risk assessment and have been approved for use by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.  However, if the specific crop-type has not been authorized in other countries, there is often a ‘zero’ tolerance policy preventing them from entering the foreign market.     

“The varying levels of acceptance of GM-crops by key export markets is a reality Canadian farmers face,” said Laurent Pellerin, President of the Canadian Federation of Agriculture.  “Ensuring that these markets are not closed to us because of the technology we adapt should be a government priority as they are work to develop more export opportunities for Canadian farmers.”

The shut-down of the European Union market for flax due to the presence of the GM Triffid variety in late 2009 has raised concerns that a similar event could occur and have a detrimental impact on Canadian farmers.

 “An analysis of the trade and regulatory situation in our export markets will ensure we are using GM varieties that will be accepted in our markets,” said Pellerin. “The CFA supports government decision making based on the rigourous application of science but also recognizes the volatility that can occur in some markets when political considerations on GM crops are deemed more important than scientific approval.”

If the correct process is put into place, a market assessment has the potential to provide valuable insight into which  bilateral or multi-lateral efforts could be undertaken to prevent market closure in the future. 

“Having a system in which GM-crops are authorized in one country and not in another means that the inadvertant commingling of crops and crop types while they are being transported to export markets will increase the potential for future market closures,”  said Pellerin. “This process could give us the opportunity to work with our international partners to better target which GM crops should move from a ‘zero tolerance’ position to a more feasible low level presence model.” 

The CFA would like to see this Bill progress to Committee, where the issue can be further explored and concerns can be addressed. The CFA has identified three primary concerns:

• A regulatory requirement may prevent innovator companies from investing in research and innovation
• Government agencies will have to define what market harm means
• Canadian farmers may be placed at a competitive disadvantage

The CFA welcomes further discussion on Bill C-474 as it will provide farmers and government with increased clarity and direction on how the benefits of GM-crop use can be maximized within all sectors of Canadian agriculture.

“If market assessments can prevent the future closure of our export markets and reduce the risk farmers face, it is clear that this important dialogue needs to happen,” said Pellerin.