Recognizing that infectious disease is one of the major risks to swine production, the Government of Canada is helping industry further develop the tools needed to safeguard animal health, strengthen sector resilience, and support future growth.
Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Heath MacDonald has announced up to $3,111,486 for the Canadian Pork Council through the AgriAssurance Program – National Industry Association Component to advance the scope and quality of swine health surveillance in Canada.This funding will support the development, validation and upgrading of multiplex assay technologies, which are comprehensive lab tests that can screen for multiple domestic swine viruses from a single sample. The project also includes implementing a targeted national proficiency program to support consistent testing across veterinary labs in Canada and establishing a secure surveillance database to track swine viruses.This investment will increase the availability of cost-effective, specific and sensitive diagnostic testing for rapid detection of swine intestinal and respiratory viruses. The project is based at the Atlantic Veterinary College and involves collaboration with veterinary practitioners, veterinary laboratories and industry.
Disease outbreak can have major impacts on animal welfare, food supply, productivity, producer mental health and can result in significant economic losses. Animal health surveillance is key to early detection, preventing spread and helping to mitigate the effects that disease can have. The Government of Canada is committed to supporting resilience of the swine industry by investing in innovative solutions that enhance animal health, improve productivity and strengthen Canada’s reputation as a trusted producer of high-quality pork.
“Our pork producers care deeply about their animals and work hard to protect them against infectious diseases. By investing in swine health surveillance solutions, we are continuing to equip the industry with the tools it needs to detect and respond quickly. This funding reflects our commitment to building a resilient, innovative and globally competitive pork sector that continues to thrive for generations to come,” said MacDonald.
“By enhancing surveillance and diagnostic capabilities, we’re not only protecting animal health and welfare but also safeguarding the livelihoods of producers and the stability of our food supply. This project, led by the Canadian Pork Council and taking place right here at the world-class Atlantic Veterinary College, demonstrates our commitment to sector resilience and ensuring Canada remains a trusted leader in pork production,” said Sean Casey, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defense and Member of Parliament for Charlottetown
