Prince Edward Island Agriculture Minister Neil LeClair said today that follow-up discussions are now underway between federal and provincial agriculture officials on new approaches for the industry in Prince Edward Island. Agreement to examine new approaches were reached during a meeting held last Friday between Premier Robert Ghiz, Mr. LeClair and Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Gerry Ritz in Ottawa.
“There is a recognition that some sectors of the agriculture industry across Canada are facing unprecedented difficulties, and I am pleased that Mr. Ritz is open to new ways to support producers in Prince Edward Island,” said Mr. LeClair. “There is agreement to work closely together to develop solutions to enable the industry to become more sustainable and profitable.”
Mr. LeClair said changes in support programs are needed to help the industry over the long-term, since ad hoc and stop gap measures are not working. He said that the meeting discussed various ways to help the industry make the transition to practices that improve the productivity and sustainability of their operations.
One of the approaches being actively considered is an expansion of the current Alternative Land Use Services (ALUS) pilot projects being carried out in two Prince Edward Island watersheds. Under the projects, producers are provided with financial incentives to incorporate new practices in their operations to protect soil, air, and water resources and wildlife habitat. The pilot projects could be expanded province wide.
A number of similar pilot projects are underway in other provinces, and the concept has been endorsed by the Canadian and Prince Edward Island Federations of Agriculture and other farm groups.
“Mr. Ritz recognizes the importance of the agriculture industry to the provincial economy and was very responsive to this proposal,” said Mr. LeClair. “It would enable producers to reduce costs while significantly improving their operations.”
Mr. LeClair said discussions between the two governments are now taking place. “Producers need help, and they need help now,” he said. “The industry is undergoing a major transition at this point, and we need to provide the supports so that producers can make the changes they need to improve their competitive position.”