News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 22, 2004

(OTTAWA) - Today's $995 million announcement shows the government listened to and is acting on the message from Canadian producers that Canadian agriculture is in desperate need, and the need must be addressed urgently.

'Prime Minister Paul Martin and Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Bob Speller have demonstrated their sensitivity to the plight of the agriculture industry,' said Bob Friesen, CFA President. 'This money is a sizeable investment in one of Canada's most important industries, and the benefits will accrue back to our entire economy.'

CFA is pleased the Transitional Industry Support Program will get money directly into the pockets of producers in all ruminant sectors - a measure CFA has been calling for. With the $250 million 'transition' payment, and $65 million Canadian Farm Income Program top-up, removing the need for pro-rating, the government is recognizing the entire agriculture industry has been impacted by the BSE crisis and other factors. This money will help address the need industry-wide.

CFA will continue to work alongside the federal and provincial governments in opening global borders to Canadian ruminants. CFA will also continue to monitor the impact federal programs, including the Transitional Industry Support Program, are having for producers, and make recommendations for improving structure and delivery as needed.

'The key to recovery and profitability for Canadian agriculture is a close and ongoing partnership between governments and industry groups,' said Friesen. 'If the government continues to listen and respond to producers, as they did today, we will have a brighter future ahead of us.'

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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.