Producers Can Still Apply, BSE Task Force Announced

AGRICULTURE/FISHERIES--Producers Can Still Apply, BSE Task Force Announced

Nova Scotia farmers have until Sept. 30 to apply for assistance under the Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) Recovery Program.

This federal/provincial program has made $500,000 available to assist registered farmers who sold animals between May 20 and Aug. 31.

Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Chris d'Entremeont has also announced the establishment of a task force to deal with the impact of BSE on farmers.

"It is extremely important that we hear from farmers about the impact of BSE on their businesses and to find out if the programs are meeting their needs," said Mr. d'Entremont.

MLA Brooke Taylor will chair the new Agricultural Task Force on BSE. Members of the task force, which will be made up of industry and government members, will be selected this week.

"We have heard and read a lot about the hardships associated with BSE. The task force will provide a good opportunity for us to go to the communities and hear directly from farmers," said Mr. Taylor.

The Agricultural Task Force on BSE is expected to report back on its findings by the end of October.

BSE Recovery Program inquiries should be directed to the Programs and Business Risk Management division of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries at 902-893-6374.