Solution for oversized herds desperately needed

(OTTAWA) – The Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) today joins ranchers and farmers across Canada in marking the anniversary of the event that set off the one of the worst crises in Canadian agricultural history. On this day, two years ago, government officials confirmed a case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) in the Canadian cattle herd.

“These past two years have been among the hardest the Canadian agriculture industry has ever seen. Not just for cattle and ruminant ranchers, but for all producers,” said Bob Friesen, CFA President. “Despite the incredible work of industry and government, that has clearly demonstrated the undeniable safety of our Canadian-produced beef and has opened borders to boxed beef, key borders remain closed to live animals. Our industry continues to suffer.”

The CFA is using this occasion to highlight the pressing question of oversized herds that has resulted from the continuing border closure. With severely reduced prices for beef producers have been unable to cull animals from their herds at a normal rate, preventing them from maintaining the herd at an optimal level. As of April 1, 2005, Canada’s national cattle herd, beef and dairy, reached 15.8 million. There are over 900,000 surplus breeding cows that producers say they have held on to because of limited markets and low prices. 31 per cent of the national herd are now over seven years old.

“There are more animals out there than there should be. Producers are having to feed those animals, and they’re having to do it with no income,” pointed out Friesen. “Even if the border opened tomorrow, the overstock could still keep prices depressed because of oversupply. Our governments need to act right now, working with the industry to find an answer.”

On this anniversary, the CFA is also extending its thanks to Canadian consumers for their ongoing support. “The fact the industry has been able to hold on this long is due, in no small part, to the loyalty and support of Canadian consumers. Our deepest thanks go out to them,” said Friesen.

-30- 

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.