One Private Member's Bill that the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) has been watching closely this spring is Bill C-293, which is Liberal Member of Parliament (MP) Nate Erskine Smith’s bill regarding pandemic preparedness. On the surface it looks just like a pandemic response that would fall under Health Canada—however, when looked closely, Section 4.2.L in the bill mentions “regulating commercial activities that can contribute to pandemic risk, including industrial animal agriculture…promote commercial activities…including the production of alternative proteins”. This bill is very concerning to CCA and we have been working with other stakeholders to strategically address this. The bill just made its way to Health Committee before the session broke for summer. When Parliament resumes in the fall, stakeholders (both for and against the bill) will be welcome to provide written submissions and requests to appear. CCA will work with all Parliamentarians to remove the clauses related to agriculture from this bill.
Bill C-293: An Act respecting pandemic prevention and preparedness
Bill Sponsor: Liberal MP Nate Erskine-Smith
Bill Status:
At second reading in the House of Commons, Bill C-293 was voted to send to the Health committee with support from the Liberals, New Democratic Party and the Bloc Quebecois. Conservatives voted against the bill.
HESA had one meeting before the summer session break, in which Erskine-Smith presented the bill and answered questions. HESA will bring forward witnesses for further study and will review witness testimony before considering any amendments to the bill. Then HESA sends the bill back to the house for 3rd reading and vote. From there, it will go to the Senate for further study.
As with any PMB, it is very unlikely this bill will move forward quickly. Approximately 1 per cent of PMBs ever make it to Royal Assent (and become law). However, we are not resting on this stat and will ensure our voice is heard across Parliamentarians. We encourage producers who are concerned to reach out to your MPs and express your concern.
For further information, please contact:
Jennifer Babcock Senior Director, Government and Public Affairs babcockj@cattle.ca