b'The Value Creation Debate Lives OnDespite the broad support for these IP changes, the consultation the CFIA undertook inevitably drifted toward value creationa long-standing and contentious issue in the broader seed indus-try. While the recent consultations didnt address value creation directly, some respondents made it clear: they want government to act. However, without consensus from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), private breeders and farm organizations, the issue remains unresolved, Parker says.We stated up front that this consultation wasnt about value creation, he adds. But we still got responses about it.Theres clearly a desire to move forward, but the industry needs to reach agreement fi rst.PBR Advisory Committee Plays Crucial RoleOne model that continues to be referenced in these discussions is the PBR Advisory Committeea long-standing body that has successfully provided direction on plant breeding regulation in Canada. Established as early as 1991, the committee played a crucial role in helping the industry transition from UPOV 78 to UPOV 91, ensuring Canada remained competitive on the global stage. Following this shift, the committee was reestab-lished in 2015 and refreshed in 2022, now boasting 15 mem-bers selected through a competitive application process.Unlike recent advisory body proposals from groups likeErin Wallich is intellectual property manager for British Columbias Seeds Canada and the Canadian Seed Growers Association Summerland Varieties Corporation. which have struggled to gain tractionthe PBR Advisory Committee has been an eff ective model for collaboration. So,For the seed industry, the PBR Office and its way of making whats the secret? change serve as a proven example of how a well-structured One big advantage is that the law mandates the exist- advisory body can foster innovation and collaboration, accord-ence of the committee. It has to exist, Parker points out. Buting to Mel Reekie, manager of intellectual property programs beyond that, we take a pragmatic approach. We dont overcom- for Seeds Canada. Ultimately, Reekie sees the role of the PBR plicate things. We focus on balance, make sure everyone has aOffice only growing in importance. voice, and most importantly, we just get it done. PBR is just getting more important as the industry The reality is that diff erent sectors move at diff erent speeds,advances, she says. What they do is going to become evenParker says. While value creation remains a complex challengemore critical. We see the implications of that in the fi eldfor Canadas grain and oilseed industries, the horticulture andPBR Office staffare focused on details like distinctness and greenhouse sectorsrepresenting a $4 billion annual industrynovelty. Their process is intense and thorough. are already pushing forward with stronger IP protections. At the end of the day, the PBR Office is the foundation We shouldnt let the slower speed of modernization inupon which all IP protection in the seed sector is built, she says. one sector stop progress in another, Parker says. Each sectorWe cant operate in this space without the support of should be able to move at its own pace. Anthony and his team, Reekie says. HELPING YOU TAKE CONTROL THROUGH AUTOMATIONwww.ezratek.comT: (204) 331-3000 AUTOMATIC BAGGERS BULK BAG FILLERS PALLETIZERS TAGGERS30 SEEDWORLD.COM/CANADA MARCH 2025'