CFFO applauds the court of appeal for upholding the Ontario’s Security from Trespass and Protecting Food Safety Act

CFFO applauds the court of appeal for upholding the Ontario’s Security from Trespass and Protecting Food Safety Act.

An Ontario law that restricts animal rights activists’ access to farms does not violate their right to freedom of expression under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the Ontario Court of Appeal ruled Wednesday, effectively overturning a previous court decision that had struck down parts of the law.

Passed in 2020, Ontario’s Security from Trespass and Protecting Food Safety Act bars individuals from accessing farms or animal processing facilities under false pretences. This includes getting a job at those facilities to whistle blow or report on animal cruelty.

This legislation faced opposition from organizations against livestock farming for food, fiber, and fur. The CFFO is pleased that the court of appeal has upheld this act, which enables farmers to conduct their work without undue pressure from activists. Significant resources were invested in developing this legislation, and its preservation is a relief and reassurance for the agricultural industry, providing vital protection. As a participant in the working group that advised the government during the creation of the Act, the CFFO is satisfied with this ruling and hopes it will ensure the act's sustainability.