Prince Edward Island Agriculture Minister Kevin MacAdam stated the need for a made-in-the-Maritime solution for the region’s cattle industry during this week’s meeting of federal, provincial and territorial ministers of agriculture in Kananaskis, Alberta. He joined with Nova Scotia Minister Chris d’Entremont and New Brunswick Minister David Alward to put forward proposals to Federal Minister Andy Mitchell to reallocate federal funding to address the unique needs of the livestock industry in the Maritimes.
“I am very pleased with the progress of our discussions during the meeting that are aimed at helping livestock producers in the region deal with the impacts of BSE,” said Mr. MacAdam. “All ministers are united in their objective to achieve the re-opening of the US border and seek new export opportunities for Canadian beef cattle.”
Mr. MacAdam said the establishment of the new beef plant in Borden-Carleton means that livestock producers in the region have different needs than producers in western provinces. He said the ministers from the three Maritime provinces will continue to consult and work closely with the industry in the region.
During this week’s meeting, the federal ministers reaffirmed their support for a number of measures, including expanding slaughter opportunities for cull animals, disposal of specified risk materials and improved traceability systems.
Other matters on this week’s agenda included an ecological goods and services initiative, trade, and options to the deposit requirements under the Canadian Agricultural Income Stabilization (CAIS) program. Mr. MacAdam said further announcements on decisions reached during the meeting are expected soon.