Administrative Amendments To Help Increase Efficiency

AGRICULTURE/FISHERIES--Administrative Amendments To Help Increase Efficiency

Doing business within the agriculture industry will be more efficient with the amendments included in the Agricultural Administration Amendment (2004) Act, introduced today, Oct. 1, by Chris d'Entremont, Minister of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.

"Some existing legislation simply doesn't reflect today's needs for the producer or government," said Mr. d'Entremont. "These changes will reduce red tape and provide more flexibility for agriculture organizations."

One key change to the Crop and Livestock Insurance Commission Act, for example, would revise the definition of insurable crop and insurable livestock. Another amendment will allow the commission to fix unit prices, premium rates and benefit levels. Premium rates and unit prices are revised annually for 14 insurance plans by the Crop and Livestock Insurance Commission.

"This amendment is crucial to providing good service to our farmers -- obviously timing is critical," said Mr. d'Entremont. "With this amendment, the commission will be able to be more responsive to market conditions and farmer-client needs."

Several changes would also clarify and update legislation affecting the Nova Scotia Agricultural College (NSAC) in Bible Hill. An amendment would allow the minister to approve agreements between the college and other parties, such as research partners.

Other changes included in legislation would:

• Give agricultural societies more flexibility for year-end financial reporting;
• Allow the minister to establish advisory committees on programs, policies and standards. This amendment would also allow the minister to appoint a Federation of Agriculture representative to an advisory committee;
• Amend the Agriculture and Rural Credit Act so it clearly defines the Farm Loan Board's ability to lease land, farms, buildings and equipment;
• Amend the Farm Registration Act to remove any possible conflict related to having an appeal committee make decisions and hear appeals on the same decisions. The act will also permit duties of the registrar with the approval of the minister to be delegated to another party.

Debate is expected during the second reading introduction at the Nova Scotia Legislature.