Wednesday, April 1, 2020

The most recent government updates are below:

Guidance to Meat Slaughter and Processing Establishments on Prevention and Response to Suspect and Confirmed COVID-19 Plant Employees: The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) yesterday released guidance for meat slaughter and processing establishments on prevention and response to suspect and confirmed COVID-19 plant employees. While aimed at meat processing facilities, this guidance can also be applied more broadly to other third party establishments. Each establishment should abide by the advice and guidance provided by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) as well as by local Public Health Authorities in addressing the COVID-19 outbreak. This document will continue to be updated as new requirements and information are identified. Enquiries concerning the content of this guidance may be directed to your local CFIA office or sent by email.

Survey on Shortages in Sanitization Products and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Recognizing that the spread of COVID-19 has created shortages in sanitization products and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), Public Safety Canada is seeking input from critical infrastructure owners and operators to better understand the scope of potential shortages in Canada.  In particular, we are seeking input through a needs assessment survey to gather information on the quantity and types of products/equipment that is required across the essential services and functions in Canada. Please do not hesitate to contact us through the Roundtable generic email address at aafc.roundtable-tableronde.aac@canada.ca if you have any questions or concerns.

 Work Permit Extension: For Temporary Foreign Workers already in Canada, IRCC has taken measures to facilitate extensions of work permits.

Agri-Food Immigration Pilot Update: As the Government of Canada continues its response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot is now scheduled to open on May 15, 2020, and will accept applications until May 14, 2023. Information on how to apply will be posted online and shared via social media closer to the launch date