OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Oct. 13, 2012) - "My thoughts are with the workers and the community affected by this private sector business decision.

"Consumer confidence is critical for Canada's beef industry, and that's why we won't compromise when it comes to the safety of Canadians' food.

"I understand that the company has announced a measure on a temporary basis.

"The Canadian Food Inspection Agency's food safety inspectors are working diligently to ensure that all safety issues at the Brooks plant are corrected.

"Today's news does not change our government's commitment to ensuring safe food for Canadian consumers."