CPHLN supports the following Issue groups:
- LPR - Laboratory Preparedness and Response
- WFSE - Water / Food Safety and Enterics
- Laboratory Standardization
- RCA - Reference Center Advisory
CPHLN also support the following task groups:
Water/Food Safety and Enterics
2009-2010 Co-Chairs
Federal - Matthew Gilmour (PHAC)
Provincial - Judy Isaac-Renton (British Columbia)
Background
The CPHLN Water/Food Safety and Enterics (WFSE) Issue Group was formed in 2004 under the name CPHLN Water and Food Safety Subcommittee. The WFSE was formed to address the fragmentation of responsibility for the microbiological safety of water and food in Canada.
Since its conception, the WFSE has worked to facilitate collaboration of federal, provincial and regional laboratories and provide leadership in the area of environment services, in order to protect the health of Canadians.
Mission
The purpose of the WFSE Issue Group is to continuously develop and maintain an integrated national network of laboratory experts. This network functions to develop methods for data and information sharing and assist in setting standards and developing protocols and policy.
2009-2010 Priorities
The WFSE identified four priorities to address during the 2009-2010 cycle:
- Further development/enhancement of WFSE Issue Group.
- Identify gaps in the laboratory element of Food Safety.
- Enhance communications with related organizations.
- Enhance surveillance and tracking of food and water-borne disease.
