Producers cautiously positive on cull aid

News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 21, 2003

Industry groups still have important questions

(OTTAWA) - The Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) is pleased the government has finally announced the details of a compensation package for cattle producers impacted by BSE. However, producers still have a number of outstanding questions and concerns that need to be addressed before they can fully support the program.

CFA welcomes the $120 million in new money to address the critical issue of older ruminants. Since May 19, international borders have remained closed to animals over 30 months of age, preventing producers from sending older animals to market and maintaining standard cull rates.

However the CFA is concerned about the definition of slaughter and the potential impact on market prices and processing capacity. CFA hopes the definition can be expanded to include other constructive alternatives to market product.

The CFA has also called for assistance for other ruminant commodities such as goats and sheep. To date, no details have been announced.

The CFA appreciates the support the Minister cabinet have shown the cattle industry.

"While the announcement is not as much we had hoped for to totally restore market functionality, it is a step in the right direction," said Bob Friesen, CFA President. "We will continue to monitor the effectiveness of the program and measure whether the money is adequate."

"In the end, the only real solution is to open borders. The CFA will continue to work with the government to get producers past this crisis," added Friesen.

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Founded in 1935 to provide Canada's farmers with a single voice in Ottawa, the Canadian Federation of Agriculture is the country's largest farmers' organization. Its members include provincial general farm organizations as well as national and inter-provincial commodity organizations from every province. Through its members, CFA represents over 200,000 Canadian farmers and farm families.

Contact:

Bob Friesen, CFA President, (204) 724-0824 (cell)
Brigid Rivoire, Exeuctive Director, (613) 236-3633 / (613) 715-3113 (cell)
Kieran Green, Communications Coordinator, (613) 236-3633