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CCAC Statement on Amendments to Ontario’s Animals for Research Act
With the recent passage of Ontario’s Bill 75, Keeping Criminals Behind Bars Act, which includes amendments to Ontario’s Animals for Research Act, the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) is reaffirming that the CCAC’s standards of ethical animal care and use continue to be in effect.
The CCAC’s mandate is to ensure that animals are used in science only when necessary and that animals involved in research, teaching, and testing receive the highest standards of care, informed by scientific evidence and expert guidance.
As Canada’s national oversight system for the care and use of animals in science, the CCAC provides a standards and assessment framework that supports institutions in maintaining strong animal welfare practices and ethical accountability. CCAC-certified institutions, including universities, research hospitals, private organizations, and government departments, are expected to adhere to this framework and meet Canada’s rigorous standards for the ethical and responsible care and use of animals in science.
CCAC guidelines and policies emphasize high standards for ethical veterinary care, animal welfare assessment, procurement, housing and enrichment practices, and the training and competency of personnel, providing a comprehensive national framework that supports the ethical care and use of animals in Canadian science.
As legislative decisions are made by governments, the CCAC and its Ontario-based certified institutions must operate within the legal frameworks established by the Province of Ontario. The CCAC will continue to assess and communicate any implications of this new legislation for the CCAC program and its certified institutions. The CCAC also stands ready to collaborate with the Province to support a smooth transition and help facilitate implementation for institutions navigating these legislative changes.
The CCAC remains committed to ensuring animal welfare is a central priority.