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In early April, the CFHS released a report showing how far Canada is behind other countries when it comes to the planning and funding of animal welfare. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada finalized their Growing Forward policy framework in April, after almost two years of consultation. This framework sets the policy plans and priorities for agriculture in Canada for the next five years. Despite extensive comments and specific recommendations from the CFHS, the policy makes no mention of animal welfare and has no provision for any ongoing funding of animal welfare.
While other countries are putting millions of dollars into animal welfare advisory committees, comprehensive animal health and welfare strategies and developing welfare standards, the Canadian government has refused to commit even $100,000 a year to support the National Farm Animal Care Council, which is a very moderate animal care initiative. Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the European Union provide excellent models for how to appropriately address animal welfare, instead of continuing to sweep it under the carpet. It is quickly becoming a trade issue and Canada is being left behind because our government has shown no leadership on animal welfare.
The CFHS is asking Canadians to write to Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz to ask him why his department is so out of step with the rest of the world on animal welfare. Ask him why his department continues to ignore animal welfare.
Click here for his contact information.
Click on the image to read the CFHS report.
