The Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) are hopeful of a farm-friendly focus during this fall’s Parliamentary session.
Four files are of key importance on this fall’s agenda: research, science-based innovation, the Canadian Wheat Board and rail transportation.
Agricultural research is key for a competitive sector and as part of their budget submission, the GGC produced a combination of increased funding and a tax credit to spur more public and private investment.
“We look forward to reaching out to Members of Parliament to discuss our recent budget proposals,” said Doug Robertson, president of the GGC. “Agricultural innovation and investments directed to food safety are key, and our proposals are steps in the right direction.”
The second file is Bill C-27, and according Robertson, if passed it would put a damper on research and investment in Canadian grains and oilseeds. It undermines Canada’s science-based regulatory system and makes Canada look hypocritical as we demand other countries use science in their risk assessments.
“It is critical to stop this bill dead in its tracks,” said Robertson. Bill C-27, the third file, is an act to amend the CWB elections and speed up the payments to farmers. Robertson is expecting some debate.
“Unlike all other crops we grow and sell and are paid for immediately, anything that will speed up the return of our money from the CWB would also be welcome.”
Another big issue affecting farmers is the railway related Level of Services Review, from which an interim report is due in October. According to Robertson, anything less than a recommendation to provide more power balancing between shippers and railways through legislation will be unacceptable.
