2019-04-23 OPC Press Release
Stratford, ON, April 23, 2019 – The Ontario Pork Congress (OPC) is excited to host the 46th annual trade show on June 19th and 20th, 2019 at the Stratford Rotary Complex. We want to acknowledge the concern that has been raised with regards to African Swine Fever, and what this means for the OPC event in Ontario. After consultation with veterinarians and industry professionals, the OPC committee has decided to continue with plans to host the show in 2019.
Biosecurity will be top of mind for event coordinators, exhibitors, and participants as the swine industry faces disease threats from around the world. African Swine Fever (ASF) is a major global concern for swine producers and is currently impacting eastern Asia and Europe. The North American swine industry has responded to this threat by improving and strengthening their biosecurity protocols and remains focused on keeping the deadly disease out of Canada.
OPC asks that producers and industry members who attend OPC heighten their biosecurity practices before and after visiting the show, and to refer to any Canadian Food Inspection Agency or Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs advisories available related to ASF as they arise.
As always, the strength of the Ontario swine industry is our main concern, so the committee will re- evaluate this decision if the current disease threat situation changes.
The Ontario Pork Congress is an Ontario trade show with many educational sessions, a chef demonstration, youth live pig show, Hog Jog charity fun run, and a networking opportunity for many Ontario swine farmers.
For further information:
Trish Littlejohn, Ontario Pork Congress, 519-222-1081,
porkcongress@gmail.com
www.porkcongress.on.ca
PO Box 23050, Stratford, ON, N5A 7V8
Industry Links & Information:
CFIA – African Swine Fever Information
http://www.inspection.gc.ca/animals/terrestrial-animals/diseases/reportable/african-swine- fever/eng/1306983245302/1306983373952
CFIA – African Swine Fever Fact Sheet
http://www.inspection.gc.ca/animals/terrestrial-animals/diseases/reportable/african-swine-fever/fact- sheet/eng/1306993248674/1306993787261
OMAFRA Swine Health Management and Biosecurity
http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/livestock/swine/health.html
