In 2007, the industry supported the development of a dedicated Destination Inspection Service (DIS) that would have improvements made to the timeliness of inspections and improved service delivery. The DIS is entering its final phase of a three-year process to implement full cost recovery (100% of the cost of the Service).
You will recall that last year at this time, the proposed hourly rate was to increase from $145 per hour to $190. Over the last year, and upon the request of the industry, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency has been studying the business model for their Service.
The proposed increase has now been changed to reflect the results of their study as they have been able to make changes that have reduced the cost of the Service. Although the DIS is no longer a dedicated service, it still remains a “prioritized” service. In other words, destination inspections remain the priority of DIS inspectors, regardless of other work they may be expected to perform.
There are two primary changes to the fees that will now come into effect April 1, 2014:
- the hourly inspection rate increases to $171 (from $145 in 2012/13 and $99 in 2011/12); and
- the call-out fee in the amount of $50 per inspection will no longer be applied.
Please see the DIS User Fees 2014 for full details of the new fees and the enhancements made to the DIS. The DIS Inspection staff will be equipped with hard copy materials of this same information this week.
The CFIA is committed to the ongoing analysis of costs, revenues and practical implementation challenges with the help of the National Industry Advisory Board and the industry.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Ian MacKenzie at 416-519-9390, ext. 231 or ian@theopma.ca.
Source: The Ontario Produce Marketing Association Member Notice March 11, 2014.
