The Canadian Swine Health Board was formed in 2009 to address swine health issues at the national level but core federal government funding ended in March 2013 leaving many of the organisation's initiatives in limbo.

CSHB Chair Brian Sullivan says, over the coming weeks, member organisations will be reviewing recommendations contained in a consultant's report for moving the organisation forward.

Chair Brian Sullivan-Canadian Swine Health Board:

Swine health remains a high priority and it impacts both the public and private sector and dealing with swine health issues requires the involvement of multiple stakeholders.

At this time the Canadian Swine Health Board's member organisations will be reviewing the report over the coming weeks.

These organisations include the Canadian Pork Council, the Canadian Meat Council, the Canadian Association of Swine Veterinarians, the vet colleges of Canada and my own organisation the Canadian Centre for Swine Improvement.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and provincial Chief Veterinary Officers are also involved.

Ultimately there needs to be an entity that is industry led with adequate industry support so that's what the hope is, coming out of this consultation effort, and the discussions amongst the member organisations is to find a strong path forward for such an industry led and industry supported entity.

Sullivan says, while there is strong interest in continuing the program it's a complex issue that affects different stakeholders differently and how they would support it also varies so the challenge will be working out the correct balance.