Bill C-30: Food Security, Regulatory Oversight, and What It Means for Organic Agriculture

Ontario Organic has reviewed the pest control product-related amendments contained in Bill C-30 and the implications they may have for farmers, processors, businesses, and consumers across Canada’s food system.

Many of our members have expressed concerns about these changes. While we recognize the government’s desire to improve food security, strengthen economic competitiveness, and address regulatory bottlenecks, we believe it is important to clearly understand both what the legislation intends and where additional safeguards may be warranted.

What Changed?

Bill C-30 introduced new powers under the Pest Control Products Act that allow Cabinet, under certain circumstances, to intervene after the Minister of Health has determined that the health and environmental risks of a pest control product are not acceptable.

The legislation adds national economic security, regional economic security, and national food security as considerations within the administration of the Pest Control Products Act.

It also creates a mechanism through which the Cabinet may authorize, amend, or reinstate registrations for certain pest control products when it considers such action necessary to protect economic or food security interests.