NR AXMD
AU Feng,P.
TI Policy Responses to BSE in Canada: The Role of Science
QU International Conference - Prion 2007 (26.-28.9.2007) Edinburgh International Conference Centre, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK - Book of Abstracts: Epidemiology, Risk Assessment and Transmission P04.118
IA http://www.prion2007.com/pdf/Prion Book of Abstracts.pdf
PT Konferenz-Poster
AB
The discovery of the first native case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) in May 2003 caused massive social and economic disruptions in Canada. In response, provincial and federal governments moved quickly to formulate policy and regain access to foreign markets. After protracted (and ongoing) negotiations, trade has somewhat normalized, although total exports are still significantly short of pre-2003 levels and many markets remain closed to Canadian beef. Throughout this crisis, science has played an important - if contested - role in informing public policy. Canada's response has been characterized by many observers as being "measured" and based on "the best available science." Yet, some have questioned whether policy responses have truly been science-driven, pointing to differences between Canadian, American, and European responses as evidence that science is not the major driver in the case of BSE.
This paper describes the evolution of policy in Canada, paying particular attention to the role of science. To investigate this, interviews were conducted with policymakers and other officials from a variety of government agencies as well as key industry groups. Interviews focused on three policy issues - feed, surveillance, and handling and disposal of Specified Risk Materials - as well the relationship between science and policy-making. In addition, documents from national and supra-national organizations were reviewed to determine the degree to which there has been policy convergence between Canada, the U.S., and European countries. It was determined that, despite the existence of international guidelines, there are still significant differences between these countries' policies. Furthermore, factors such as consumer confidence and industry structure appear to significantly influence how and to what extent science can inform policy. Implications for the development of future policies are discussed.
AD P. Feng, University of Calgary, Faculty of Communication and Culture, Canada
SP englisch
PO Schottland