sheila weatherill

The Globe finds confusion around our food safety system.

Results of the six-month investigation are released

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Okay, so you know how usually, when the gallery sends out a revised media advisory and ITQ gets all excited, only to find that it was just to correct a spelling mistake or translation error? Well, it’s safe to say that isn’t the case here.

Below the jump, the two releases — original, and updated. See if you can spot the difference!

(Hint: You can. Seriously, you can’t miss it.)

Date: Mon, 20 Jul 2009 14:09:48 -0400
Subject: OTTAWA / JULY 21 JUILLET / 11:00

Statement to the Media

MESSAGE FROM THE INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATOR

July 20, 2009 (Ottawa) – Today, I submitted my final report on the August 2008 Listeriosis outbreak to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.  This report concludes a six-month-long investigation into a tragedy that cost 22 Canadians their lives.

I was appointed by Prime Minister Harper in January 2009, to conduct an investigation into the outbreak and assess how well federal organizations and their food safety partners responded to the event. Ensuring the safety of our food supply is one of the government’s most important responsibilities and as the Independent Investigator, I felt a strong obligation to find out the circumstances and factors contributing to this preventable incident.

As part of my investigation, I interviewed key members of the industry as well as affected family members.  I also met with experienced individuals from all levels of government – local, provincial and federal, to better understand how and why the outbreak occurred.

I have been able to conduct my investigation independently and impartially. There has been no interference from any party whatsoever. Overall my experience was positive in that people wanted to help and be part of the solution.  All those who were asked to participate agreed to be interviewed and were open with their information and advice.