OTTAWA, Ontario – Dr. Martine Dubuc was appointed Chief Food Safety Officer and Dr. Ian Alexander was named Chief Veterinary Officer, Canada’s Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz announced on Sept. 18. Dr. Brian Evans previously served in both positions. He was named Special Adviser to the President at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).

"Canada has a strong food safety system founded on sound science and aligned with international standards," Ritz said. "The Chief Food Safety Officer plays a key role in ensuring our food safety activities benefit from the latest science and continue to contribute to the health of Canadians and to Canada's overall economic performance. Dr. Dubuc will be a tremendous asset in her new role."

Dubuc has worked with the CFIA since November 2008 and previously worked at senior levels in the Quebec government with responsibilities including animal health and the food safety system. She will continue her work as the CFIA's Vice-President of Science.

Before joining CFIA in 2010, Alexander served as the director of the Clinical Evaluation Division and acting Director General of the Veterinary Drugs Directorate for Health Canada. He will continue his current duties as executive director of the Animal Health Directorate at the agency while serving as Chief Veterinary Officer.