Prince Edward Island Agriculture Minister Neil LeClair has announced new initiatives to address the current crisis in the province’s beef industry. The new initiatives will assist producers to adjust to current market conditions and develop improved quality in their herds. The total cost of the new initiatives will be $3 million.
“Prince Edward Island cattle producers have never recovered since the BSE crisis devastated the industry in 2003,” said Mr. LeClair. “The direct support to producers which I am announcing today will be a payment based on a combination of their average net sales and December 2007 inventory.”
The Minister also announced that support will be provided for producers over three years to improve the genetic quality of their herds. He said this would result in higher quality cattle for feedlots and the grade of cattle marketed through Atlantic Beef Products.
“We will be providing financial support to help producers improve herd health standards, to purchase or retain genetically superior replacement heifers and financial incentives to produce a high quality product to meet the beef plant’s market specifications,” said Mr. LeClair. “The overall objective of these initiatives will be to continue to produce high quality beef products for consumers.”
Details of the new initiatives were discussed with beef producers on Tuesday evening. The announcement follows ongoing negotiations between government and industry representatives.
“I want to thank the members of the Cattle Producers for their input and cooperation during these very difficult and trying times,” said Mr. LeClair.
The Minister said he is confident about the future of the province’s beef industry. “Prince Edward Island has made a significant investment in the future of the beef industry in this province through support for the beef plant and direct support to producers,” he said. “The measures which I am announcing today will build on this province’s strengths and experiences in beef production and improve prospects for marketing our products.”