CAIS Program Enrolment Deadline Extended

Nova Scotia farmers will have more time to enrol in the Canadian Agricultural Income Stabilization (CAIS) program, Chris d'Entremont, Minister of the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, said today, Feb. 24.

Two deadlines for the program have been extended. The first deadline, for responding to the program's options notices and choosing a level of income protection for 2003 and 2004, has been moved to April 30. The deadline for making deposits, for 2003 and 2004 program years has also been extended to Dec. 31.

The deadline to file farming income information for the 2003 CAIS program will remain the same. Farmers must report their 2003 farming income for tax purposes and submit the 2003 CAIS supplementary forms reporting inventory and expense information by June 15 for individuals and June 30 for corporations

"With all the hardships producers have experienced this past year it is great that these deadlines are being extended," said the minister. "The new deadlines will give producers an increased opportunity to participate in the CAIS program as well as to address any transitional challenges that may arise."

Producers who would like to participate, but have not yet received an options notice, should contact the CAIS program administration office as soon as possible. For more information call toll-free 1 866 367-8506 or visit the website at www.agr.gc.ca/caisprogram .