Province Considers Aid Announcement to Cattle Producers

AGRICULTURE/FISHERIES--Province Considers Aid Announcement to Cattle Producers

The recently announced federal strategy for the cattle industry requires more details from the federal government and more discussion with Nova Scotia's cattle farmers and other provinces, the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries said today, Sept. 15.

Chris d'Entremont, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, said he will discuss the strategy with his counterparts next week at the annual Federal/Provincial/Territorial Agriculture Ministers Conference on Prince Edward Island.

"This strategy is a very positive development. The cattle industry has been struggling for several years now and we need a national plan," said Mr. d'Entremont. "But the challenges are not necessarily the same from one province to the next. We need a better understanding of how this strategy can be applied to meet the specific needs of Nova Scotia farmers, processors and other industry people."

The federal strategy was released on Friday, Sept. 10 to help the cattle industry through the hardship caused by BSE (mad cow disease). The strategy recommends actions to: reopen the Canada- U.S. border, increase cattle processing in Canada, introduce measures to sustain the cattle industry until capacity comes online, and expand access to export markets for both livestock and beef products.

"We'll continue to talk with members of the industry, the federal government and other provinces to determine the next course of action," said Mr. d'Entremont.

Nova Scotia has already taken several initiatives that are in keeping with the new federal proposal. Brand Nova Scotia provides higher recognition for local products in the marketplace. The province also recently announced a $200,000 loan to Bowlby Quality Meats Ltd. to help expand its abattoir and retail business.

The federal announcement also referred to possible cash advance payments through the Canadian Agricultural Income Stabilization (CAIS) program. Additional details on the CAIS program will be made available to producers over the next few weeks.

"I am pleased that cash advance payments will be made through CAIS, as it will provide immediate cash flow to producers," said Mr. d'Entremont. "This quick calculation will give producers a clear indication of what advance they will receive."