Province Does Support Nova Scotia's Hog Industry--Op-Ed

AGRICULTURE--Province Does Support Nova Scotia's Hog Industry-- Op-Ed

NOTE: The following is an Op-Ed feature by Agriculture Minister Brooke Taylor.

Agriculture in Nova Scotia is what many refer to as a foundation industry -- an industry steeped in tradition.

However, it is much more than that. The industry has evolved to one that is efficient and science based, where high tech demands and stricter regulatory requirements are needed to meet consumer expectations. This evolution presents opportunities and challenges in agriculture.

The government supports our diversified agriculture industry in various ways, including programs, services and financial aid. Of the 2,500 registered farms in our province, many have experienced successes and challenges Government has been, and continues to be, there to help producers through tough times.

Nova Scotia's 65 hog farmers have been hurt by low prices, animal health issues, excess supply, a high Canadian dollar and rising production costs.

Last month, the province announced $9.7 million in support for our agriculture sector. The hog industry is expected to receive a significant portion of that amount.

Of the $6.2 million announced to eliminate farm debt, about $3.5 million will go to the hog sector. As part of the eligibility for debt forgiveness, we have asked producers for business plans that point to profitability, or transition to a new business model or product, a succession plan or an exit plan.

Also, part of the December announcement was $2 million for income relief. The hog sector will receive about $500,000.

And we have done more. Aside from the above programs, the provincial government has provided about $10.6 million to the hog industry between 2002 and 2006. This assistance has involved loan writeoffs, interest deferral, direct income support and grants.

In addition, there are several federal programs the province has entered into that provide substantial income support to our province's agriculture industry.

The fact is Nova Scotia's hog production sector has required substantial levels of public support over the past 10 to 15 years. It's time to make more strategic decisions. Government will not continue to provide annual income support to maintain the status quo. This sector must find a way to conquer its challenges and continue to move toward prosperity and new business opportunities.

Even though our hog farms are amongst the best managed in the country, opportunities and financial sustainability in their current commodity-based system are limited.

We have worked with Pork Nova Scotia on a number of things to address price competitiveness and business planning. The province continues to work with the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture on proposals to help the hog industry transition to more competitive models.

We will continue to work with producers as they make their sector more competitive, sustainable and profitable.