May 22, 2003

The Canadian Cattlemen’s Association is pleased with the progress being made by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) in its tracing and quarantining procedures. Nine herds have been placed under quarantine in the traceback to the BSE infected cow’s origin and trace out of the cow’s offspring. Seven of the herds are located in Alberta and two in Saskatchewan.

Canada has to take extensive steps to reassure our markets and trading partners that all precautions have been taken and that this incident is limited to one cow. Testing of all of the infected cow’s herdmates is now taking place. Testing of additional animals from the quarantined herds will also take place. The extensive quarantines and testing do not mean that these animals are suspected of having BSE. These thorough steps are taken to show the world that this is an isolated incident and has no effect on the safety and wholesomeness of Canadian beef.

Our focus remains on maintaining our domestic markets and re-opening our borders to exports of Canadian beef as soon as possible. We appreciate the fine work being done by CFIA on behalf of Canadian cattle producers. We also appreciate the many expressions support for our producers that have been made by the Canadian public and friends around the world. Canadians can best show their support for Canadian beef producers by continuing to enjoy the taste and nutritional benefits of Canadian beef.