Agriculture and Forestry Minister Mitch Murphy said last week's meeting of federal, provincial and territorial agriculture ministers failed to resolve a number of trade-related issues, and that he could not support the federal position concerning the re-entry of Prince Edward Island seed potatoes to Mexico. New Brunswick is also affected by Mexico's ban on the import of seed.
"Despite four meeting between the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and Mexican officials, there has been no resolution of this issue," said Mr. Murphy. "Prince Edward Island's proposed increased inspection of Mexican produce entering Canada and commencement of the dispute resolution mechanism have both been rejected by the federal government."
The federal government has proposed more bi-lateral talks in an attempt to resolve the impasse.
"I am not optimistic that this ‘tread lightly' approach will see Prince Edward Island seed exports to Mexico anytime soon," said Mr. Murphy.
The minister also said he continues to push for resolution on the issue of import certificates for Prince Edward Island potatoes to Venezuela.
Mr. Murphy said ministers discussed extreme drought conditions that affected many parts of Canada over the past growing season, but said the federal government made it clear there would be no additional help to Canadian farmers outside of existing safety net programs.
Ministers were also updated on the status of the Dairy Panel currently before the World Trade Organization. Canada is appealing a previous decision of the WTO which ruled Canadian milk product exports violated the agreement. "A negative outcome may lead to serious consequences for exports of milk products," said Mr. Murphy.
Concern was also expressed at the meeting about the proposed US Farm Bill which would add an additional $38 billion in subsidies to US farmers. Recent statements from Washington indicate the bill may not pass in its present form.
Mr. Murphy did express satisfaction with the new federal emphasis on food safety and environmental sustainability. "We feel this fits hand-in-glove with our Food Strategy, and it will be a good support to our Agriculture and Environmental Resources Conservation program," he said. "We certainly welcome any federal assistance in this area."