Agriculture minister Eric Hammill said that provincial hog producers and the Hog Commodity Marketing Board are taking a very businesslike and prudent approach in determining their marketing plans for Prince Edward Island hogs.
Mr. Hammill made the comment following Thursday night's decision by producers to take some more time to complete negotiations with interested processors and establish a price for Island hogs. Producers also confirmed their view that the current standing offer from Maple Leaf Foods, manager of the Garden Province Meats facility, is not acceptable.
"I'm pleased that producers haven't made any rash decisions," said Mr. Hammill. "This is a complex matter, and hog producers need to weigh all the factors. They have taken a lot of steps to strengthen the whole industry here, and I would like to see all the jobs and economic benefits stay here on Prince Edward Island. Having a partner they can work with on the processing side is an essential part of this."
The minister said that the ability of producers to reach consensus and stick together is a credit to them.
Producers decided at the meeting to continue to pay the $10 quality incentive, which was provided by the provincial government up to today, from the Hog Board's own funds until negotiations are completed and a Prince Edward Island market price is set.
Mr. Hammill confirmed that Dubreton Meats, a Quebec-based processing company which has become active in the Maritimes, has requested a meeting with the provincial government. "We've met with several processors who are very interested in the high quality pork which Prince Edward Island has to offer. We'd be happy to meet with Dubreton as well," said the minister.