The federal government is calling on farmers across the nation to share their thoughts on the Canada Grain Act.
Federal agriculture minister Marie-Claude Bibeau says the government is starting a four month consultation reviewing the Act.
Grain industry stakeholders will be able to provide feedback on ways to update legislation to ensure the country remains a strong competitor on the global grain market as production continues to increase in the coming years. In 2020, Canadian grain production was 93 million metric tonnes while in 2010 it was 69 million metric tonnes.
“Together, we will help shape an innovative and modern regulatory system that safeguards grain farmers, grows Canada’s reputation for grain quality and helps our grain industry compete with the world,” Bibeau says.
The Act sets the objectives and functions of the Canadian Grain Commission who is responsible for regulation grain quality and handling. The commission also provides several safeguards for farmers including payment protection and allocation of available producer cars. Prairies special representative Jim Carr notes the act has remained largely unchanged in the past 50 years.
“The marketplace for grain has greatly evolved over the past half century, and now is the time for the Canada Grain Act to reflect that evolution. I encourage all those with a stake in Canada’s grain industry to make their voices heard as part of this consultation.”
The online consultation are open until April 30.