Agriculture ministers meeting in Winnipeg say that reinstating access for beef exports to key markets remains their top priority. They agreed that efforts to reopen borders need to be intensified, and they expressed support for the federal government's strong leadership. Discussions on the BSE crisis dominated the meeting, which concludes today.
"The current situation is a stark reminder of the need for the Prince Edward Island beef industry to gain more control over the processing and marketing of its products," said Prince Edward Island Agriculture and Forestry Minister Mitch Murphy. "I am very pleased that producers in the Maritime region are supporting the new beef plant through the purchase of shares, or hooks."
Ministers discussed the report of the international team of experts that reviewed and commended Canada's BSE investigation. "I am pleased that Prince Edward Island is well positioned to implement the recommendations of the report," said Mr. Murphy. "This will be key in helping to normalize exports."
Ministers also reached agreement on the payment schedule of the BSE Recovery Program, which is providing temporary assistance to producers. Details will be available in the near future.
They also called for an immediate review of the process for issuing supplementary import permits.
The Agricultural Policy Framework was another main discussion among Ministers. Mr. Murphy said he continues to have concerns about the business risk management section of the framework but recognizes that producers need to have income stabilization and disaster protection for the current year. "Prince Edward Island's 40 percent share of the program is not adequate to meet potential problems, and we will need to reach agreement with the federal government to ensure its participation," said Mr. Murphy.
Ministers reviewed the status of the WTO agriculture negotiations and Canada's drive for a level international playing field that promotes fair competition among producers and processors from all countries. During the discussions, Mr. Murphy raised concerns about supply-managed commodities and was pleased to hear Minister Vanclief reiterate his commitment to supply management. "The system is an important component of risk management for producers, and we need greater assurance that the system will continue to be protected in the long term," said Mr. Murphy.
The annual minister's meeting will be held next year in Charlottetown.