Bill C-18 passed by Parliament to the delight of Canadian grain growers

Mar 02, 2015

Could help Canada attract investment research in plant breeding

News out of Ottawa that Bill C-18, “An Act to Amend Certain Acts Relating to Agriculture and Agri-Food (the Canadian Agricultural Growth Act)” received Royal Assent and is now law in Canada has grain growers across the country applauding the decision.

Changes included are related to the Plant Breeders’ Rights Act (PBR). They will allow changes in conditions and protections of rights and will also provide exceptions for the applications of rights.

“Farmers need access to the latest plant breeding innovations in order to remain globally competitive,” said Gary Stanford, Grain Growers of Canada President. “At the same time, plant breeders need to know that their costly investments are protected. These changes to the PBR will provide this security - allowing grain growers to continue to work closely with our innovation partners.”

Other changes as a result of Bill C-18’s passing are:

Authorizes inspectors to deem unlawful imports to Canada be removed or destroyed
Authorizes the Minister of Food and Agriculture (Gerry Ritz) to issue certificates for any information he sees necessary for exports
The Farm Debt Mediation Act will be changed to clarify the processes for farm debt mediation
The Agriculture and Agri-Food Administrative Monetary Penalties Act will be changed and could see the maximum penalty limits increased

The House of Commons read the bill for the first time on December 9, 2013. The Senate first read it on November 25, 2014 and officially received Royal Assent on February 25, 2015.

Join the discussion and tell us what you think of Bill C-18 and its passing. How will this affect your operation if at all?

Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz

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