Canada, which was upset by the U.S statements that it might have supplied the BSE-infected cow to the U.S, was quick to welcome the new measures introduced by the US department of Agriculture to protect the US beef supply. The new U.S. measures closely align with many of the safeguards Canada has in place, noted the Minister of Agriculture Bob Speller. The new measure of the US on "downer" animals – those unable to stand – and any animals exhibiting symptoms compatible with BSE, are in line with Canada’s current surveillance program which tests those animals most at risk of having BSE, pointed the minister. “Given the historic integration of trade between Canada and the United States, and the risk factors

common to both countries, we are pursuing a North American approach to BSE,” said the minister. The safeguard announced concerning the removal of specified risk materials at slaughter parallels measures previously announced in Canada. This is the most critical measure to prevent potentially infectious material from entering the food supply. In addition, Canada’s cattle identification program came into effect in 2001. “It is my hope that we can continue this cooperative spirit and together refine our respective BSE measures as we move forward together to eradicate BSE from this continent in the most effective manner possible," he said.