Canadian Food Inspection Agency has recently posted the guidelines for requesting ministerial exemptions on its web site.
While the exemption information has been posted, the CFIA has scheduled two informational meetings for Canadian potato producers and the potato process industry in the western area.
Eric Jackson said the meetings are not designed to discuss plant health issues. There have been no changes made in plant health requirements for phytosanitary permits, he noted.
John Wood, program specialist for Fresh and Processed Fruits and Vegetables, said the participation of all in the Canadian industry is welcomed.
The meetings are set Monday, Feb. 24, in Winnipeg, MB, at 269 Main Street from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. for producer associations, and from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. for the processors and re-packers.
A second session will be held in Calgary,AB. It will be held Tuesday, Feb. 25, 654-220-4th Avenue Southeast (Harry Hayes Building. The Producer Association will meet from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and the processors and re-packers from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Call John Wood at (204) 984-6186 in Winnipeg or Eric Jackson (403) 292-6746 in Calgary for information.