The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is reviewing compensation for diseased animals ordered destroyed.
The compensation under the Health of Animals Act is being reviewed by agency officials, Agriculture Canada and industry groups. They are evaluating the list of eligible species, analyzing market prices and calculating an appropriate maximum payment.
“Right now, we’re reviewing the list of animals that we would compensate,” said agency official Alain Charette.
During the avian influenza outbreak in British Columbia last year, other bird species were affected besides chickens and turkeys but they were not included on the list for compensation.
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In the second stage of review the CFIA will post a proposed schedule of compensation on its website for public comment.
The last stage will adjust the compensation schedule and publish comments. The final regulations will be published in the official Canada Gazette.
Some industry groups have already requested compensation be given for other financial losses such as loss of a product and business disruption.
Providing compensation for losses is part of a government policy to encourage early reporting of disease and to promote owner co-operation during control or eradication efforts. It may also help owners in rebuilding their herds or flocks.
Owners of animals ordered destroyed may receive compensation for disposal costs including transportation, slaughter, cleaning, disinfection, labour and equipment.
Under current regulations, when animals are ordered destroyed three assessors measure its value and there is an appeal process. The assessors include a CFIA veterinarian, one chosen by the owner and another by the agency. All must be knowledgeable about that species and its market value.
The present compensation table lists 156 types of mammals, birds and insects eligible for payment.
The regulations allow a maximum payment of $2,500 for cattle, $4,000 for bison, elk or deer, $600 for sheep, $800 for goats and swine, $2,750 for horses and $33 for chickens.
