The issues surrounding the growing number of legal actions surrounding
the possible contamination of seed potatoes from Alberta, Canada,
has spawned an equal volume of sharp exchanges between U.S. and Canadian
grower groups. This is unfortunate since both groups would benefit
by access to information. In the latest press release from the Potato
Growers of Alberta there are repeated references to the “inappropriate”
and “improper” use of information in the possession of
the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Should we distrust growers having
access to information about the industry’s seed production?
Potato growers in both the U.S. and Canada value the relationship
they have with the individual from which they purchase their seed.
They depend on the quality of that relationship and the underling
programs of the seed certification entities whether state, federal,
provincial or private to effectively monitor the production and sale
of seed to safeguard against the spread of pests of concern. These
pests do not respect borders therefore the responsibility of protecting
our respective potato growers must be shared.
The information gathered by these seed oversight entities is important
to decision made on both sides of the border. We strongly believe
that growers should have access to information that helps them determine
the quality of the seed they purchase. Confidence in the system of
safeguarding the health of seed is enhanced by access to information—not
by attempting to deny that access. Access to information will result
in less commercial disputes, not more. When a commercial dispute on
the quality of seed potatoes does occur we have to depend on the courts
to evaluate that dispute based on both parties having access to information
from the appropriate certifying body.
The appropriate and proper use of information on the quality of seed
is to have it available to growers so that they can make informed
decisions. Canadian and U.S. purchasers can rely on the Canadian seed
certification process if it makes information available. The lack
of transparency in the system will bred mistrust and an eroding confidence.
The efforts of a few individuals to make information inaccessible
do a disservice to the majority of Canadian seed growers and weaken
their relationships with their customers.
John Keeling, Executive Vice President and CEO
National Potato Council
johnkeeling@nationalpotatocouncil.org
