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BC Farm Industry Review Board

Last updated on January 17, 2024

The B.C. Farm Industry Review Board (BCFIRB) is an independent administrative tribunal that operates at arm's length from government. Read more about administrative tribunals.

Current BCFIRB Board Members and Staff

What Does BCFIRB Do?

BCFIRB’s statutory mandates include hearing appeals and complaints as well as supervising B.C.’s regulated agricultural commodity boards and commissions.

​BCFIRB's responsibilities are established in: 

BCFIRB's responsibilities include:

Where it is suitable, BCFIRB promotes early dispute resolution through mediation, facilitation or other processes. 

BCFIRB decisions are final and conclusive but may be judicially reviewed by, or appealed to, the Supreme Court of British Columbia.

BCFIRB processes and procedures can be reviewed by B.C.'s Office of the Ombudsperson, providing an additional layer of accountability.

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Regulated Marketing

B.C.’s regulated marketing system is a government-legislated system that provides for the orderly production and marketing of certain agricultural commodities.

 

BCSPCA Animal Custody Decisions

BCFIRB hears appeals about certain animal custody and related cost decisions of the B.C. Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BCSPCA) under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (PCAA).

 

Farm Practices

BCFIRB, as an administrative tribunal, is responsible for hearing complaints from persons aggrieved by odour, noise, dust or other disturbances arising from agriculture and certain aquaculture operations.

Other useful references:

 

Governance

Governance is about the structures and processes an organization uses to provide direction, control, and accountability in their day-to-day operations. Good governance helps organizations to effectively meet their mandate, goals, and objectives.

BCFIRB has its own governance structures and processes.

In 2018, BCFIRB initiated the Public Accountability and Reporting Project.

Ombudsperson

If you have a concern about BCFIRB's practices and/or services, you can file a complaint with the B.C. Ombudsperson. Concerns can include things like lengthy delays, rudeness, negligence, arbitrariness, oppressive behaviour or unlawfulness.

The B.C. Ombudsperson is an independent Officer of the Legislature who upholds the principles of openness, transparency, and accountability. The role of the Ombudsperson is to ensure that every person in B.C. is treated fairly by government bodies.

After investigating a complaint, the Ombudsperson can, when appropriate, recommend changes for resolving an unfair situation. However, the Ombudsperson does not have the authority to order changes to BCFIRB processes, policies or decisions.

 

BCFIRB Publications and Legislation

 

Contact BCFIRB