Ottawa, ON – Canada’s national agricultural associations thank Minister Bibeau and Special Representative Carr for their comments during today’s announcement regarding urgently needed changes to Canada’s AgriStability program. The proposed changes, consistent with a number of the recommendations the national groups have brought forward, stand to benefit agriculture across Canada, including in the prairie provinces. Provincial counterparts have yet to respond to the proposed changes and time is of the essence.
The proposal tabled by Minister Bibeau included the removal of the reference margin limit and an increase to the compensation rate from 70 per cent to 80 per cent. The Minister also mentioned that she is prepared to consider other program options with her provincial and territorial counterparts. Agriculture associations continue to advocate in support of the proposals put forward at the last Agriculture Ministers’ Federal-Provincial-Territorial (FPT) meeting in November and urge collaboration between federal and all provincial governments to make these changes in time for this year’s April 30 deadline.
“We need to have tools that help us better manage the risks of weather, trade and production. The proposed program enhancements will do that and better position the beef industry to contribute to Canada’s economic recovery,” said Bob Lowe, Canadian Cattlemen’s Association President.
“The AgriStability deadline is looming, and Canadian farmers and ranchers are already making their risk management decisions for the year,” said Mary Robinson, Canadian Federation of Agriculture President. “There is no time left to wait, we need clarity now.”
“Improvements to AgriStability will give Canadian fruit and vegetable growers a hand-up when they need it most. Farmers take on considerable risks every growing season, so strengthening programs like this are critical to maintain the viability of Canada’s food supply,” said Jan VanderHout, Canadian Horticultural Council President.
“We understand that the priority of all governments is on COVID‑19 vaccination and economic recovery, but we need a consensus on AgriStability as soon as possible to mitigate the economic risks that producers are facing on a daily basis,” said Rick Bergmann, Canadian Pork Council Chair.
“We call on all Ministers to come together in support of Canada’s farmers, and agree to invest in the future of Canadian agriculture, at a time when our sector is primed to drive Canada’s economic recovery,” said Andre Harpe, Grain Growers of Canada President.
The agriculture sector appreciates the priority FPT Ministers are placing on addressing agriculture risk management programs to ensure the ongoing viability of Canada’s agriculture sector, particularly at a time where our sector is primed to drive Canada’s economic recovery.
The national agricultural associations signing on include the Canadian Canola Growers Association, Canadian Cattlemen’s Association, Canadian Federation of Agriculture, Canadian Horticultural Council, Canadian Pork Council, Grain Growers of Canada, and National Cattle Feeders’ Association.