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Cattle group rejects CFIA proposed changes to traceability regulations

Apr 8, 2026 | 8:45 AM

Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s proposed changes to livestock identifications and traceability regulations are not getting support from a national cattle group. 

The Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) said in a statement it does not support proceeding with the proposed amendments to Part XV (15) of the Health of Animals Regulations, based on conversations with producers and input from provincial beef organizations.  

CCA CEO Andrea Brocklebank said they support livestock traceability as a core pillar of disease preparedness, market access and confidence in Canadian beef. 

“We’ve definitely heard from producers and their concerns and developed policy recognizing those concerns to communicate to government on our stance of the regulations as proposed,” she said. “I think with that we’ve really recognized the need to work with the provinces on this and also ensure that we have greater clarification.” 

Brocklebank said there’s been a lot of misinformation and misinterpretation.  

“We’re also striking a task force to better navigate this as we entertain conversations with producers and the government.”  

CCA said the Task Force will work on producers’ behalf to create a “risk-based, industry-led approach to disease preparedness and emergency management.” 

In the months between the CFIA’s initial notice late last year and the CCA’s announcement, groups like the Saskatchewan Cattle Association were gathering feedback from producers through open forum meetings. 

alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com