SASKATCHEWAN WELCOMES COURT DECISION TO OPEN BORDER

Released on July 15, 2005

Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman is applauding yesterday's ruling by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in Seattle, Washington to lift the preliminary injunction against Canadian cattle and other ruminants.

"This is news that the Canadian livestock industry has been waiting for," Wartman said. "This decision by the appeals court acknowledges what we have been saying all along: that Canadian meat and animals are safe, and that the science supports the resumption of normal trade between Canada and the U.S."

In a statement issued July 14th, U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns said they are taking immediate steps to resume importation of cattle under 30 months of age from Canada. The USDA also continues to work on a rule for imports of cattle over 30 months of age and imports of beef from older animals.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is working with the USDA on export criteria and expects to have this information completed early next week.

It is hoped that live animals can begin to move across the border within one week.

"Yesterday's decision is a milestone in our fight to reopen the U.S. border to Canadian livestock," Wartman said. "However, we must remember that there are legal battles yet ahead, namely R-CALF's argument for a permanent injunction against Canadian meat and animals, which is scheduled to begin on July 27th.

"That being said, the July 14th appeals court ruling is a significant one, and it is great news for Saskatchewan producers and for the whole of Canada's livestock industry."

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For More Information, Contact:

Trish Alcorn Agriculture and Food Regina Phone: (306) 787-5389