OTTAWA, February 17, 2011: The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has completed all potato cyst nematode (PCN) soil sampling and testing of the 2010 seed potato crop and PCN was not detected.
Over 43,200 soil samples were collected and analysed as part of Canada's 2010 national PCN detection survey. The CFIA, working with Canadian seed potato growers, prioritized these samples to meet importing countries' requirements and export deadlines.
The CFIA, with the support of Canadian seed potato growers and other stakeholders, has tested approximately 80 percent of the entire 2010 Canadian seed potato production area.
The Government of Canada is committed to working with stakeholders on ongoing PCN detection surveys to facilitate continued market access for Canadian seed potatoes and other potentially affected commodities, while working to protect all sectors against the spread of PCN.
National CFIA spokesperson
Brian Rex
Acting National Manager, Potato Cyst Nematode Section
Winnipeg, Manitoba
204-983-2236
