Funding To Be Delivered to Farmers

AGRICULTURE/FISHERIES Funding To Be Delivered to Farmers

Nova Scotia farmers will receive an additional $2.5 million to help with recent income losses, Chris d'Entremont, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries said in the legislature today, Oct. 7.

"Producers face many challenges, just look at the impact of BSE," said Mr. d'Entremont. "This funding will help ease some of the financial pressures being experienced by Nova Scotia's farmers."

The funding is part of the province's commitment to match federal expenditures for transition to the new Agriculture Policy Framework (APF). He noted that Nova Scotia is one of the few provinces to make such a commitment.

Mr. d'Entremont said direct payment is the approach requested by the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture.

Net Income Stabilization Account (NISA) program participants will receive a direct payment by cheque by year's end. As with last year, there will be an enhanced contribution for the red meat sector. Producers who are not in the NISA program can apply for the funds by calling toll-free at 1-866-844-4BRM.