New Protocols in Place for Cattle Inspection

New protocols are in place for cattle inspection prior to their exportation to Mexico. Today, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Jose Abelardo Mai said that the new system in place seems to be working well, based on two previous shipments since the change took place. The inspection, which was conducted by Mexican veterinarians from Senasica, is now being carried out by their Belizean counterparts who are appointed by OIRSA. This is the regional organization that deals with plant and animal health. Minister Mai says it is the hope that the transition continues seamlessly.

 

Jose Abelardo Mai, Minister of Agriculture & Food Security

“They asked us now to use our veterinarian, but a veterinarian that was to be appointed or assigned by OIRSA. So we have implemented that now. We’ve done two shipments and following that new protocol and it seems like it’s been – went very well. We were watching it closely to see what have been the hiccups, but it went very well. As a matter of fact, there is a meeting, I think on Monday to review that protocol, see where it went smooth, where we can improve because what you don’t want is when the cattle get to the border, it cannot be allowed to enter. That would be very unfortunate. But so far, the two shipments using the new protocol have gone through well.”