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Non-profit, union wary of federal plan to amend food inspection, pest control acts
Critics say the proposed amendments could weaken food safety oversight as the government adds affordability and food security to federal law.
On Sunday, the federal government announced plans to amend the Canadian Food Inspection Agency Act and the Pest Control Products Act to include consideration of food security and food costs, with implementation details and timing to be announced later.
Mary Lou McDonald of Safe Food Matters argued the legislative changes prioritize trade over the health of Canadians, warning the amendments could allow higher glyphosate residue levels and claiming Canada would be "shooting ourselves in the foot."
Eliminating more than 500 jobs at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency will reduce inspection capacity, according to the Agriculture Union, which warned these cuts could weaken safety protections for Canadians.
Sean O'Reilly of the Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada noted nearly 1 million hours of food-safety expertise have been cut, highlighting that recalls are rising while thousands of facilities remain uninspected.
Despite concerns, O'Reilly acknowledged that adding food security principles could be positive depending on implementation, while a Department official stated the government remains committed to protecting the health and safety of Canadians.