Assistance for Nova Scotia Cattle Farmers Announced

AGRICULTURE/FISHERIES--Assistance for Nova Scotia Cattle Farmers Announced

Nova Scotia cattle producers affected by the impact of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE or mad cow disease) will receive financial assistance from the provincial government.

The government's $3.5-million commitment was announced today, Nov. 13, by Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Chris d'Entremont.

"We know that BSE is causing tremendous hardship for Nova Scotia cattle producers and others dependent upon their industry," said Mr. d'Entremont. "We've heard from producers, their associations and from the Agriculture Task Force on BSE. Their message has been clear -- they have asked for a swift response and one that is Nova Scotia designed -- and we've listened."

Department of Agriculture and Fisheries staff are making adjustments to provincial funding programs based on needs that were identified by the task force. The Agriculture Task Force on BSE presented its report to government on Oct. 29. The report is based on consultations held throughout the province this fall.

To address immediate cash flow problems and further assist the feedlot owners the province has committed to provide producers with $100 per breeding cow, once producers enrol in the Canadian Agricultural Income Stabilization (CAIS) Program.

"I have confidence that the new risk management program, the Canadian Agricultural Income Stabilization Program, will help farmers through this rough time," said Mr. d'Entremont. "That is why I encourage farmers to sign up. Farmers will receive more help dependent upon their income loss."

To be eligible, producers must enrol in the program through an application process. The enrolment investment component would be aimed at producers registered under the Farm Registration Act.

Producers have complained the application process is unclear and the department will put resources together to help farmers access the program. Further details on the application process will be announced early next week.

In the meantime, farmers can contact the department toll-free at 1-866-844-4276, or 902-893 6510.

"We recognize that time is of the essence and that every day adds new challenges for producers," said the minister. "We have found a fiscally responsible solution that is based on the needs of the entire agriculture industry and government resources."

As requested by industry, the department will also initiate a modified BSE recovery program, retroactive to Sept. 1, 2003. Details of this program will also be announced next week.