Christmas Day hadn't even officially arrived, when the article below hit my mailbox. The MP concerned has been a friend and advisor to Supply Management for a long time. Issues brought to the fore by this MP need to be taken very seriously! I give his comments and the warnings issued even more weight, after reading this week's Ontario Farmer. In an article entitled: 'Supply Management off WTO's Radar', Mr. Liam McCreary suggests " they can relax because they aren't on the table these days".
That's like the Devil telling you Hell is a great place to live. Mr. McCreary is heavily involved in an organization known as CAFTA . If HE is telling supply managed farmers to relax..... you better start working your contacts hard. Something is up!
It's not like people haven't been trying to warn supply management about the agenda the current government has.. Too much has happened out there in recent months. This Conservative party is not the traditional one, rural Ontario or Canada is used to. Much of their philosophy (and their agenda) smacks of the Alliance Party of old. The views espoused by the Trade Minister, in a western setting must be taken seriously.
8888888888888888888888888888888888888
International Trade Minister Admits Supply-Management on the Chopping Block-December 21, 2006Hunter River, PEI
International Trade Minister David Emerson is sacrificing Canada's supply management system to appease the Bush administration at the expense of Canada's farmers, particularly in Ontario and Quebec, Liberal Opposition Agriculture Critic Wayne Easter said today."We have seen this coming with the Harper government's attack on the Canadian Wheat Board. We knew that the dismantlement of the Wheat Board was the first step to killing orderly marketing systems and now Minister Emerson has admitted it," said Easter.
Minister Emerson told The Western Producer that producers of dairy, poultry and egg products must prepare to be open to free trade in their sectors for the "national interest."In the same article, Mr. Emerson claims that supply management has forced Canada into a "defensive trade negotiating policy at the expense of competitive exporters.""What Mr. Emerson has done is a public service. Unlike the Minister of Agriculture, Chuck Strahl, who has said repeatedly that the Conservative government has no intention of undermining supply management as it has the Canadian Wheat Board, Minister Emerson has put the lie to those statements," Mr. Easter said."
Mr. Emerson has finally confirmed that farmers, regardless of whether they are working through the Canadian Wheat Board or involved in one of our successful supply managed commodity sectors are under direct and immediate threat by the Conservative government.
The direct threat to supply management from the Harper Conservatives has been around as long as the party itself," Mr. Easter said."Canadians are getting yet another clear look at the hypocrisy of the Harper government," Mr. Easter added. "Liberal governments have been long-time defenders of supply-management and this Liberal Opposition will continue to fight to defend that system against whatever attacks Mr. Harper and his cabinet have in store."
The supply-management industries in Canada are doing well compared to others and it is prized as a tool that enables producers to gain some power in the marketplace. Without supply-management, dairy, egg and poultry farmers will not be able to recover their cost of production or compete with international markets.
Combined, the Canadian egg, dairy and poultry sectors generate over $6.8 billion in farm cash receipts or 20 percent of total primary agriculture, more than $39 billion of economic activity, and over 215,000 jobs in Canada.
"What our supply management system and the Canadian Wheat Board have achieved is that both have contributed to the empowerment of farmers in the marketplace. Unfortunately, the Harper Conservatives have an agenda which will remove that power from our primary producers and their agenda will and must be challenged," Mr. Easter said.
Mr. Easter said supply-management provides high quality products at reasonable and stable prices for consumers, while ensuring price increases are in line or lower than that of other commodities, such as beef, pork and bread."
Compared to the rest of the world Canadians spend less on their food than just about any other country," he said. "This treachery is the Harper government's gift to the United States and the E.U., both of whom have attacked Canada's supply-management system and the Canadian Wheat Board at the WTO for years.
"This is a complete sellout of Canada's farmers to our giant international competitors."Mr. Easter said this betrayal comes on the heels of months of undemocratic and unprincipled attacks on the Canadian Wheat Board, which culminated this week in the firing of the Board's President and CEO.
"This is a government that has consistently misled and attempted to manipulate the public to achieve its ends. What is now clear is that farmers from Prince Edward Island to British Columbia, from Saskatchewan to Quebec and every province and territory between, have one thing in common: a justifiable reason to ensure the Conservative government is defeated and removed from the office they do not deserve to hold."
:::::
And then we get damage control. Issued later the same day:
December 21, 2006 (6:50 p.m. EST)
No. 163
CANADA’S NEW GOVERNMENT HAS PROVEN TRACK RECORD ON SUPPLY MANAGEMENT
The Honourable David Emerson, Minister of International Trade, and the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Minister for the Canadian Wheat Board, today said Canada’s new government will continue to support our supply-managed agricultural industries in the World Trade Organization (WTO) Doha Round and other negotiations.
“Our supply management system is not on the negotiating table. This government has consistently defended our supply-managed sectors at the WTO,” said Minister Emerson.
“Agriculture has become the main focus of the Doha Round. In these negotiations, Canada strongly supports the supply management system used in the dairy, poultry and egg sectors, just as other countries have been supporting their own sensitive sectors.”
“This government strongly supports Canada’s supply management system,” said Minister Strahl. “Our party policy supports it, we campaigned on it, and we have gone to the wall to defend elements important to our supply management system, during international negotiations.”
Minister Emerson said Canada continues to believe that an ambitious outcome to the Doha Round is in the best interest of the Canadian economy as a whole. Negotiations have been stalled but will hopefully resume in the new year.
- 30 -
Monday, December 25, 2006
Thursday, December 21, 2006
TA DAAAAA!!!!!!
Hello to all my readers!!!! To-day is a special day, indeed. If Dairiblawg was a store.... we'd have a prize of some sort for ...... wait for it..... the 2000th page view!!! Even though you guys are not much in the conversation department.... you sure are pretty faithful readers. I have tried to encourage you to use the blawg as a sort of forum, however to date, no such luck. It is good to know though, that at the least, I have your attention.
The Holiday season is approaching, so I do want to wish you all a Happy, healthy, merry Christmas. -cg
The Holiday season is approaching, so I do want to wish you all a Happy, healthy, merry Christmas. -cg
The NFU speaks...
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE DECEMBER 19, 2006
FIRING OF CWB PRESIDENT LATEST ANTI-DEMOCRATIC ACT BY HARPER GOVERNMENT
The firing of Canadian Wheat Board (CWB) President and CEO Adrian Measner, whose record at the helm of the $4 billion farmer's marketing agency has been exemplary , is the latest in a string of anti-democratic actions by the Harper Conservatives, says National Farmers Union (NFU) President Stewart Wells.
"For the first time in my life I am genuinely concerned about the future of this country," stated Wells. "Watching the Harper Conservatives engage in what amounts to a reign of terror against the CWB has shattered my notion of Canada as a safe country that is based on democracy."
Wells characterized the firing of Mr. Measner as "a vicious and savage act' that has already hurt Canada's international reputation. Letters of concern have recently been pouring in to the CWB office from such major companies as COFCO (China's largest grain purchaser), Warburton's (Europe's largest single end-user of western Canadian wheat), Grupo Altex (Mexico's largest wheat milling group, and Canada Malting (Canada's largest barley maltster). The market turbulence generated in the wake of the government's attack on the CWB has undermined years of market development efforts.
"Mr. Measner is a friend of the farmer and a true Canadian hero for not knuckling under to the ideological lunacy coming from the Harper Conservatives," stated Wells.
The Harper Conservatives engaged in election tampering during the CWB Director elections; purged CWB Directors who supported the single desk and replaced them with appointees who will toe the party line; and imposed gag orders on the CWB. "This is the same government that claims it will bring 'democracy' to the Senate," said Wells. "Canadians who understand what true democracy is will see through this Jekyll and Hyde routine."
Wells concluded that if they truly believed in democracy, Conservative MPs would follow the lead of Manitoba MP Inky Mark, who is honestly representing his constituents by supporting the CWB single desk.
He pointed out that David Anderson, MP for Cypress Hills Grasslands, represents a constituency whose boundaries closely align with the boundaries of the CWB District in which incumbent CWB Director Larry Hill , a supporter of the single-desk - won by a landslide majority.
- 30
Contact: Stewart Wells, NFU President (306) 741-7694
Terry Pugh, NFU Executive-Secretary (306) 652-9465
FIRING OF CWB PRESIDENT LATEST ANTI-DEMOCRATIC ACT BY HARPER GOVERNMENT
The firing of Canadian Wheat Board (CWB) President and CEO Adrian Measner, whose record at the helm of the $4 billion farmer's marketing agency has been exemplary , is the latest in a string of anti-democratic actions by the Harper Conservatives, says National Farmers Union (NFU) President Stewart Wells.
"For the first time in my life I am genuinely concerned about the future of this country," stated Wells. "Watching the Harper Conservatives engage in what amounts to a reign of terror against the CWB has shattered my notion of Canada as a safe country that is based on democracy."
Wells characterized the firing of Mr. Measner as "a vicious and savage act' that has already hurt Canada's international reputation. Letters of concern have recently been pouring in to the CWB office from such major companies as COFCO (China's largest grain purchaser), Warburton's (Europe's largest single end-user of western Canadian wheat), Grupo Altex (Mexico's largest wheat milling group, and Canada Malting (Canada's largest barley maltster). The market turbulence generated in the wake of the government's attack on the CWB has undermined years of market development efforts.
"Mr. Measner is a friend of the farmer and a true Canadian hero for not knuckling under to the ideological lunacy coming from the Harper Conservatives," stated Wells.
The Harper Conservatives engaged in election tampering during the CWB Director elections; purged CWB Directors who supported the single desk and replaced them with appointees who will toe the party line; and imposed gag orders on the CWB. "This is the same government that claims it will bring 'democracy' to the Senate," said Wells. "Canadians who understand what true democracy is will see through this Jekyll and Hyde routine."
Wells concluded that if they truly believed in democracy, Conservative MPs would follow the lead of Manitoba MP Inky Mark, who is honestly representing his constituents by supporting the CWB single desk.
He pointed out that David Anderson, MP for Cypress Hills Grasslands, represents a constituency whose boundaries closely align with the boundaries of the CWB District in which incumbent CWB Director Larry Hill , a supporter of the single-desk - won by a landslide majority.
- 30
Contact: Stewart Wells, NFU President (306) 741-7694
Terry Pugh, NFU Executive-Secretary (306) 652-9465
Another viewpoint......
December 19, 2006
Canadian Wheat Board boss axed
By STEVE LAMBERT
Adrian Measner. (CP/Tom Hanson)
ST. FRANCOIS XAVIER, Man. (CP) - The federal government moved a step closer to ending the Canadian Wheat Board's marketing monopoly Tuesday by firing board president Adrian Measner, who had spoken out against the plan.
"We issued the letter to him, just saying that his position . . . was no longer his, that thanked him for his service," Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl said after making the announcement at a farm west of Winnipeg. "It's time to make a change."
The Conservatives are following through on an election promise to give western farmers greater freedom to choose whether to sell their wheat and barley through the board or independently, he said.
Strahl appointed Greg Arason, a former board president, to fill the vacancy on an interim basis.
He said Arason supports the government's position and will focus on "selling grain for farmers, not engaging in political activity".
Measner said Strahl never spoke with him directly about his firing.
"It isn't a very professional way to operate, but it is the method of operation that the minister has chosen," he said from his home near Winnipeg.
Measner said Arason will have to choose between listening to the board of directors, most of whom oppose the government's plan, or to listen to Strahl. "It's a no-win situation. I guess that's what I've been through."
Supporters of the board say scrapping the monopoly would effectively kill the farmer-run organization and result in lower prices.
"Mr. Strahl's approach to things has been to ignore . . . the wishes of farmers," said Bill Toews, one of the wheat board's elected directors.
Carl Siemens, who grows grains and oilseeds near Rush Lake, Sask., said Tuesday's announcement could cost the Conservatives votes in the next election.
"Although a goodly number of (farmers) actually voted for the Conservative government in the last federal election, they did so with no knowledge that this government was going to move in this fashion to remove the Canadian Wheat Board," he said.
"Although a goodly number of (farmers) actually voted for the Conservative government in the last federal election, they did so with no knowledge that this government was going to move in this fashion to remove the Canadian Wheat Board," he said.
But other farmers have been waiting a long time for what they see as a competitive alternative.
They say producers can get better prices if they're allowed to choose how they sell what they grow.
"If the Canadian Wheat Board is the best marketing agency in the world, they can prove it by competing for the farmers' grain," said Charlie Anderson, who farms in northeastern Saskatchewan.
Liberal agriculture critic Wayne Easter called the firing undemocratic and an act of intimidation.
The board, backed by the Saskatchewan and Manitoba governments, the federal Liberals and NDP and several farm groups, says the Canadian Wheat Board Act requires the government to hold a plebiscite before taking any steps to remove the monopoly.
Strahl, who has the support of the Alberta government and some farm groups, has said he'll hold a non-binding plebiscite on barley this winter, but hasn't committed to a date for a similar vote for wheat.
After Measner spoke out against the government plan in November, Strahl sent him a tersely worded letter giving him 14 days to change his stance or face dismissal.
Measner further irritated Strahl last week when the CEO stood beside Stephane Dion as the new Liberal leader made a campaign-style promise to support the wheat board.
Strahl has not had an easy time selling his new vision of the wheat board to Prairie farmers. Earlier this month, individuals who support the monopoly won four of five district elections for the CWB's board of directors.
Alberta Agriculture Minister George Groeneveld suggested that limits what Strahl can do in the way of reform. But he added he wasn't surprised that Measner was dumped.
"I think that Mr. Strahl was forced into that position," Groeneveld said in Edmonton. "When you start opposing the minister that's in charge of the show, your shelf life is probably quite limited."
Groeneveld's Manitoba counterpart, Rosann Wowchuk, said Strahl should not make any changes without allowing farmers to vote on them.
"I'm disappointed in him that he has so little respect for the producers and is prepared to subvert democracy so he gets his own agenda forward," she said.
Controlled by western Canadian farmers, the CWB is the largest wheat and barley marketer in the world. One of Canada's biggest exporters, the Winnipeg-based organization sells grain to over 70 countries and returns all sales revenue, less marketing costs, to Prairie farmers.
Measner, who was raised on a farm in Holdfast, Sask., has worked for the board since 1974, including nine years in charge of grain marketing and transportation. He became its second president and chief executive officer in January 2003.
What's Wrong with This Picture?
Strahl fires president of Canadian Wheat Board
CTV.ca
News Staff Updated: Tue. Dec. 19 2006 3:43 PM ET
The federal agriculture minister has fired Adrian Measner, president of the embattled Canadian Wheat Board.
Officials with the board say Chuck Strahl gave Measner a termination notice today.
Strahl made his announcement at a staged rally west of Winnipeg. Farmers who oppose the wheat board's current monopoly on wheat and barley sales surrounded him.
He appointed Greg Arason, a former wheat board president, as interim president. Arason supports the government's plan to end the board's monopoly. "Arason will focus on selling grain, not engaging in political action," Strahl said.
In late November, Strahl sent Measner a fax saying he was considering terminating him.
Ken Ritter, chairman of the farmer-run organization, said the letter amounted to two week's notice. The board sent Strahl a fax imploring him not to fire Measner.
The Conservative government wants to end the board's monopoly over the sale of western wheat and barley -- a promise made in their 2006 election platform. Their plan would allow farmers to sell either to the board or independently.
Critics of the plan say ending the board's monopoly would effectively cripple the organization and result in lower prices for most farmers.
Measner had been one critic of the plan. He said the government should hold a plebiscite among farmers before proceeding with ending the board's monopoly.
Strahl has promised a non-binding plebiscite on barley this winter, but hasn't committed yet to a similar vote for wheat.
Federally, the NDP and Liberals both support the board. Measner stood beside Stephane Dion when the new Liberal leader promised to restore the board's monopoly if elected.
The NDP provincial governments in Saskatchewan and Manitoba support the status quo.
Alberta's Conservative government would like to see changes. Groups like the Western Canadian Wheat Growers and Western Canadian Barley Growers have always supported ending the board's monopoly.
In recent board elections, the ratio of board members favouring the status quo versus those who want to end the monopoly was maintained.
"You either have single-desk selling or you have don't have a CWB and they have presented no evidence that would counter that contention," said Mark Wartman, Saskatchewan's agriculture minister, the wake of the vote. "Clearly, the majority of farmers are not buying that nonsense about dual-marketing."
Strahl begged to differ.
"Other people would counter that in the federal election, 85 per cent of the MPs elected in wheat board country were Conservative,'' he said on Dec. 11. "And Conservatives campaigned openly and aggressively on moving to marketing choice. "People make decisions for all kinds of reasons, but the input that's going to be most valuable as far as changes to the board goes is going to be the plebiscite."
Strahl came under fire earlier this fall for striking the names of some farmers off the voting list for such a plebiscite.
The board was established by the federal government in 1935 to help give prairie farmers more marketing clout. An elected 15-member board administers it on behalf of more than 85,000 farmers.
The CWB is the world's largest wheat and barley marketer, controlling more than 20 per cent of the global market.
The board sells grain to more than 70 countries and returns all sales revenue to farmers, less marketing costs.
However, proponents of change say that in an era in which market pricing information is instantly available via the Internet, farmers could earn better returns by marketing their own grain.
With files from The Canadian Press
© Copyright 2006 CTV Inc.
CTV.ca
News Staff Updated: Tue. Dec. 19 2006 3:43 PM ET
The federal agriculture minister has fired Adrian Measner, president of the embattled Canadian Wheat Board.
Officials with the board say Chuck Strahl gave Measner a termination notice today.
Strahl made his announcement at a staged rally west of Winnipeg. Farmers who oppose the wheat board's current monopoly on wheat and barley sales surrounded him.
He appointed Greg Arason, a former wheat board president, as interim president. Arason supports the government's plan to end the board's monopoly. "Arason will focus on selling grain, not engaging in political action," Strahl said.
In late November, Strahl sent Measner a fax saying he was considering terminating him.
Ken Ritter, chairman of the farmer-run organization, said the letter amounted to two week's notice. The board sent Strahl a fax imploring him not to fire Measner.
The Conservative government wants to end the board's monopoly over the sale of western wheat and barley -- a promise made in their 2006 election platform. Their plan would allow farmers to sell either to the board or independently.
Critics of the plan say ending the board's monopoly would effectively cripple the organization and result in lower prices for most farmers.
Measner had been one critic of the plan. He said the government should hold a plebiscite among farmers before proceeding with ending the board's monopoly.
Strahl has promised a non-binding plebiscite on barley this winter, but hasn't committed yet to a similar vote for wheat.
Federally, the NDP and Liberals both support the board. Measner stood beside Stephane Dion when the new Liberal leader promised to restore the board's monopoly if elected.
The NDP provincial governments in Saskatchewan and Manitoba support the status quo.
Alberta's Conservative government would like to see changes. Groups like the Western Canadian Wheat Growers and Western Canadian Barley Growers have always supported ending the board's monopoly.
In recent board elections, the ratio of board members favouring the status quo versus those who want to end the monopoly was maintained.
"You either have single-desk selling or you have don't have a CWB and they have presented no evidence that would counter that contention," said Mark Wartman, Saskatchewan's agriculture minister, the wake of the vote. "Clearly, the majority of farmers are not buying that nonsense about dual-marketing."
Strahl begged to differ.
"Other people would counter that in the federal election, 85 per cent of the MPs elected in wheat board country were Conservative,'' he said on Dec. 11. "And Conservatives campaigned openly and aggressively on moving to marketing choice. "People make decisions for all kinds of reasons, but the input that's going to be most valuable as far as changes to the board goes is going to be the plebiscite."
Strahl came under fire earlier this fall for striking the names of some farmers off the voting list for such a plebiscite.
The board was established by the federal government in 1935 to help give prairie farmers more marketing clout. An elected 15-member board administers it on behalf of more than 85,000 farmers.
The CWB is the world's largest wheat and barley marketer, controlling more than 20 per cent of the global market.
The board sells grain to more than 70 countries and returns all sales revenue to farmers, less marketing costs.
However, proponents of change say that in an era in which market pricing information is instantly available via the Internet, farmers could earn better returns by marketing their own grain.
With files from The Canadian Press
© Copyright 2006 CTV Inc.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
The First Cracks?
The actions of the new Conservative Government will NOT be without consequences. I think this article pretty well says it all.-CG
Prairie growers gather in Winnipeg in last-ditch show of support for CEO
JOE FRIESEN 15/12/06 Globe and Mail
WINNIPEG -- Hundreds of prairie farmers travelled to the heart of the Canadian grain trade yesterday to demand that a $300,000 a year CEO be allowed to keep his job.
The wheat producers, carrying placards rather than pitchforks, staged a last-ditch protest aimed at saving the job of Canadian Wheat Board boss Adrian Measner.
Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl told Mr. Measner two weeks ago he was considering firing him for refusing to back Ottawa's plan to dismantle the board's monopoly on grain sales.
As the crowd chanted his name, the quiet, unassuming CEO from Holdfast, Sask., climbed onto the back of a pickup truck and looked out over signs that said "CWB -- Our board, our business" and "Strahl -- Keep your hands off our CWB."
Mr. Measner, his eyes looking tired and his voice at times choked with emotion, vowed to stay in his job as long as possible.
But moments before he emerged from the board's Main Street head office, he faxed a four-page letter to Mr. Strahl that will almost certainly seal his fate. In the letter, Mr. Measner said he cannot support the direction the Conservative government has taken.
"Based on my 32 years of experience, and based on the direction given to me by the farmer-elected board of directors, I will continue to support the single desk [model of selling]," his letter says. He asked Mr. Strahl to stop meddling with an organization that he believes should be at arms-length from government, run by farmers, for farmers.
In an interview in his office yesterday morning, Mr. Measner outlined his thoughts as he faced what could well be his last day on the job.
"This isn't how I wanted to end my career," he said. "It's a bit hard to understand, because I'm caught in the middle of an issue that I personally can't resolve. "I will continue to work for the farmer-elected board. There's no option in my mind."
He arrived at the board as a computer programmer fresh out of the University of Saskatchewan and rose through the ranks to eventually run the $4-billion-a-year organization. His staff holds him in high regard for his honest, straightforward style.
But he is clearly uncomfortable in the spotlight, and sought yesterday to deflect attention from his imminent dismissal. "I don't want us to get sidetracked on me; I want us to focus on who's in charge of this organization and who should be charting its future.
"I think farmers need to stand up and say, 'No. This is our organization, and you're not taking it.' "
Mr. Measner said Ottawa is trying to impose its will on Western Canadian farmers by refusing to follow the rules that require a plebiscite before any change to the monopoly.
Mr. Strahl has promised to hold a vote on the barley monopoly, but has not said whether he will do the same for wheat.
The Conservatives campaigned on a platform of marketing choice in the last election and swept nearly every seat on the Prairies.
Mr. Measner said that after what he has seen in the last two months, he has no intention of running for Parliament, but he intends be a thorn in the government's side.
He was overwhelmed to see several hundred farmers, many wearing jeans and baseball caps, protesting on behalf of someone who wears a suit to work every day.
"It's very unusual but very appreciated. It's a tremendous thing. If farmers can work together and speak with a single voice, they're a lot stronger and they'll have a lot more impact."
Marty McNabb, a farmer from Minnedosa, 210 kilometres northwest of Winnipeg, said he supports the board. "We've got to make the government listen," he said, with a toothpick dangling from his mouth. "An open market might be good for some, but not for everyone."
Ernie Michaleski, a farmer from Dauphin, Man., said opposition to government plans is growing among farmers, who have recently been loyal Conservative voters.
"It's so far out of touch with reality and common sense," he said. "There are Conservative voters who aren't going to be able to vote Conservative after this."
Prairie growers gather in Winnipeg in last-ditch show of support for CEO
JOE FRIESEN 15/12/06 Globe and Mail
WINNIPEG -- Hundreds of prairie farmers travelled to the heart of the Canadian grain trade yesterday to demand that a $300,000 a year CEO be allowed to keep his job.
The wheat producers, carrying placards rather than pitchforks, staged a last-ditch protest aimed at saving the job of Canadian Wheat Board boss Adrian Measner.
Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl told Mr. Measner two weeks ago he was considering firing him for refusing to back Ottawa's plan to dismantle the board's monopoly on grain sales.
As the crowd chanted his name, the quiet, unassuming CEO from Holdfast, Sask., climbed onto the back of a pickup truck and looked out over signs that said "CWB -- Our board, our business" and "Strahl -- Keep your hands off our CWB."
Mr. Measner, his eyes looking tired and his voice at times choked with emotion, vowed to stay in his job as long as possible.
But moments before he emerged from the board's Main Street head office, he faxed a four-page letter to Mr. Strahl that will almost certainly seal his fate. In the letter, Mr. Measner said he cannot support the direction the Conservative government has taken.
"Based on my 32 years of experience, and based on the direction given to me by the farmer-elected board of directors, I will continue to support the single desk [model of selling]," his letter says. He asked Mr. Strahl to stop meddling with an organization that he believes should be at arms-length from government, run by farmers, for farmers.
In an interview in his office yesterday morning, Mr. Measner outlined his thoughts as he faced what could well be his last day on the job.
"This isn't how I wanted to end my career," he said. "It's a bit hard to understand, because I'm caught in the middle of an issue that I personally can't resolve. "I will continue to work for the farmer-elected board. There's no option in my mind."
He arrived at the board as a computer programmer fresh out of the University of Saskatchewan and rose through the ranks to eventually run the $4-billion-a-year organization. His staff holds him in high regard for his honest, straightforward style.
But he is clearly uncomfortable in the spotlight, and sought yesterday to deflect attention from his imminent dismissal. "I don't want us to get sidetracked on me; I want us to focus on who's in charge of this organization and who should be charting its future.
"I think farmers need to stand up and say, 'No. This is our organization, and you're not taking it.' "
Mr. Measner said Ottawa is trying to impose its will on Western Canadian farmers by refusing to follow the rules that require a plebiscite before any change to the monopoly.
Mr. Strahl has promised to hold a vote on the barley monopoly, but has not said whether he will do the same for wheat.
The Conservatives campaigned on a platform of marketing choice in the last election and swept nearly every seat on the Prairies.
Mr. Measner said that after what he has seen in the last two months, he has no intention of running for Parliament, but he intends be a thorn in the government's side.
He was overwhelmed to see several hundred farmers, many wearing jeans and baseball caps, protesting on behalf of someone who wears a suit to work every day.
"It's very unusual but very appreciated. It's a tremendous thing. If farmers can work together and speak with a single voice, they're a lot stronger and they'll have a lot more impact."
Marty McNabb, a farmer from Minnedosa, 210 kilometres northwest of Winnipeg, said he supports the board. "We've got to make the government listen," he said, with a toothpick dangling from his mouth. "An open market might be good for some, but not for everyone."
Ernie Michaleski, a farmer from Dauphin, Man., said opposition to government plans is growing among farmers, who have recently been loyal Conservative voters.
"It's so far out of touch with reality and common sense," he said. "There are Conservative voters who aren't going to be able to vote Conservative after this."
Friday, December 15, 2006
And the Minister's next Move is....... ?
All my rants, over the shoddy treatment farmers have received in the last few months from this new Government, would NOT be complete if I did not report the latest response from farmers. They held elections last week. In spite of the interference from Minister Strahl and his strategists and supporters, 4 out of 5 positions on the Canadian Wheat Board , were filled by pro-wheat board representatives.
In the one position that failed to do so, 50% of the voters were dis-qualified from the vote by Government manipulations.
As reported:
Election proves farmers support wheat board, critics tell Tories
Terry Pedwell
Canadian Press
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
OTTAWA (CP) - Supporters of the Canadian Wheat Board are warning the federal Conservative government to back away from sweeping changes to the board in the wake of a vote by farmers.
The Tories want to end the board's monopoly on wheat and barley sales - a move that critics say would effectively kill the farmer-run organization. Pro-monopoly directors won four of five elections over the weekend to a new board of directors, maintaining the balance of power that existed prior to the vote.
Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister Mark Wartman said the result sends a message that most farmers support keeping the board's marketing monopoly. "Clearly, the majority of farmers are not buying that nonsense about dual-marketing," Wartman said Monday.
"You either have single-desk selling or you have don't have a CWB and they have presented no evidence that would counter that contention."
New Democrat MP Alex Atamanenko said the vote should be a "wake-up call" for Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl. "Farmers made a clear choice this past weekend and chose the wheat board."
The Tories maintain that they want to give producers choice in how they sell their grain. But that's not what farmers have indicated they want, said wheat board chairman Ken Ritter.
Strahl suggested critics are reading too much into the board elections and it's wrong to conclude that the vote means farmers want Ottawa to back off with changes. "Other people would counter that in the federal election, 85 per cent of the MPs elected in wheat board country were Conservative," he said. "And Conservatives campaigned openly and aggressively on moving to marketing choice.
"People make decisions for all kinds of reasons, but the input that's going to be most valuable as far as changes to the board goes is going to be the plebiscite."
Strahl plans to hold a vote among barley farmers by February on "marketing choice," but he has not committed to a plebiscite by wheat farmers.
And Strahl insisted that the wheat board would survive without a monopoly.
"Everytime someone says that the wheat board's in jeopardy or the wheat board might not exist ... whenever they cast doubt on the wheat board, there's no doubt it hurts the board internationally. They should stop doing that."
But Wartman said the only way to maintain a strong wheat board is for Strahl to stop tampering with it.
Meantime, Strahl has threatened to fire wheat board president and CEO Adrian Measner for opposing the government's position.
The wheat board, which is governed by a 15-person board of directors, was established by Parliament in 1935 as a producer marketing system for wheat and barley.
Ten of the directors are elected by grain farmers in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. The remaining five are appointed by the federal government.
Some farmers have argued that selling grain through a single government agency no longer works in an era of globalization. But defenders say that without the board, grain prices would fluctuate day-to-day and farmers themselves would have to negotiate their own prices.
Still others support a dual market system, where farmers could sell their crops either on the open market or through the board.
© The Canadian Press 2006
In the one position that failed to do so, 50% of the voters were dis-qualified from the vote by Government manipulations.
As reported:
Election proves farmers support wheat board, critics tell Tories
Terry Pedwell
Canadian Press
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
OTTAWA (CP) - Supporters of the Canadian Wheat Board are warning the federal Conservative government to back away from sweeping changes to the board in the wake of a vote by farmers.
The Tories want to end the board's monopoly on wheat and barley sales - a move that critics say would effectively kill the farmer-run organization. Pro-monopoly directors won four of five elections over the weekend to a new board of directors, maintaining the balance of power that existed prior to the vote.
Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister Mark Wartman said the result sends a message that most farmers support keeping the board's marketing monopoly. "Clearly, the majority of farmers are not buying that nonsense about dual-marketing," Wartman said Monday.
"You either have single-desk selling or you have don't have a CWB and they have presented no evidence that would counter that contention."
New Democrat MP Alex Atamanenko said the vote should be a "wake-up call" for Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl. "Farmers made a clear choice this past weekend and chose the wheat board."
The Tories maintain that they want to give producers choice in how they sell their grain. But that's not what farmers have indicated they want, said wheat board chairman Ken Ritter.
Strahl suggested critics are reading too much into the board elections and it's wrong to conclude that the vote means farmers want Ottawa to back off with changes. "Other people would counter that in the federal election, 85 per cent of the MPs elected in wheat board country were Conservative," he said. "And Conservatives campaigned openly and aggressively on moving to marketing choice.
"People make decisions for all kinds of reasons, but the input that's going to be most valuable as far as changes to the board goes is going to be the plebiscite."
Strahl plans to hold a vote among barley farmers by February on "marketing choice," but he has not committed to a plebiscite by wheat farmers.
And Strahl insisted that the wheat board would survive without a monopoly.
"Everytime someone says that the wheat board's in jeopardy or the wheat board might not exist ... whenever they cast doubt on the wheat board, there's no doubt it hurts the board internationally. They should stop doing that."
But Wartman said the only way to maintain a strong wheat board is for Strahl to stop tampering with it.
Meantime, Strahl has threatened to fire wheat board president and CEO Adrian Measner for opposing the government's position.
The wheat board, which is governed by a 15-person board of directors, was established by Parliament in 1935 as a producer marketing system for wheat and barley.
Ten of the directors are elected by grain farmers in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. The remaining five are appointed by the federal government.
Some farmers have argued that selling grain through a single government agency no longer works in an era of globalization. But defenders say that without the board, grain prices would fluctuate day-to-day and farmers themselves would have to negotiate their own prices.
Still others support a dual market system, where farmers could sell their crops either on the open market or through the board.
© The Canadian Press 2006
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Dairy's Enemies Get Sophisticated
Well now, look what showed up this week! I certainly hope Dairy Farmers of Canada and all their farmers are aware of THIS! The page below represents the output of some very sophisticated enemies, who just keep ramping it up. Unfortunately, in the current political climate, there are people in power who will look at this and re-act just as they have with the CWB. Certainly, it is someone with more power than farmers who have caused the Conservatives to try to destroy the Board.
Probably, a group with money and power similar to this bunch. After all, they usually have the most to gain. The beef is always about money and much of the stuff seen below is seriously twisted. Observers outside the industry will not know this, without some serious educational activity. And even that may not been seen objectively. -CG
http://www.dairyplanet.ca/
Probably, a group with money and power similar to this bunch. After all, they usually have the most to gain. The beef is always about money and much of the stuff seen below is seriously twisted. Observers outside the industry will not know this, without some serious educational activity. And even that may not been seen objectively. -CG
http://www.dairyplanet.ca/
Mootropolis, Canada
Thursday, December 7, 2006
Canada holds on to world record for high dairy prices!
When it comes to high prices, the Canadian dairy industry wins the international gold medal. But it's a hollow victory. Artificially high prices mean the industry is losing market share in Canada as consumers cut back on dairy and look for more affordable alternatives. International studies show that Canadian dairy prices are among the highest in the world.
Canadian dairy prices have soared 53 per cent since 1994. That's nearly twice the rate of inflation. At the same time that prices skyrocketed, the cost of producing milk fell by 3.8 per cent. This cost of production formula was created by the dairy industry and has a built-in profit for producers. * To view a bigger version of a chart, click on the chart.
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Canadian dairy prices have soared 53 per cent since 1994. That's nearly twice the rate of inflation. At the same time that prices skyrocketed, the cost of producing milk fell by 3.8 per cent. This cost of production formula was created by the dairy industry and has a built-in profit for producers. * To view a bigger version of a chart, click on the chart.
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Wednesday, December 6, 2006
Profile at Last?!
Dion promises to reinstate Canadian Wheat Board
CTV.ca
News Staff Updated: Wed. Dec. 6 2006 2:12 PM ET
Stephane Dion stood alongside his agriculture critic and the outgoing CEO of the Canadian Wheat Board and pledged that if he becomes prime minister he will reverse any decision by the Conservative government to dismantle the Canadian Wheat Board.
Dion, the newly elected leader of the Liberal Party, said Prime Minister Stephen Harper has effectively trampled on the board by firing its leader and muzzling the board against defending itself. "If Prime Minister (Stephen) Harper succeeds in destroying the Canadian Wheat Board ... I as a prime minister will reinstate the board," Dion told reporters.
The Conservative government has said it wants to end the decades-old monopoly and make grain farmers' participation in the body voluntary -- a move that some farmers say will kill the organization's effectiveness.
Farmers are divided on the issue, but a majority of the CWB's members, who are voted into office by grain producers, prefer the current framework laid out in the Canadian Wheat Board Act.
Adrian Measner, Wheat Board CEO, has opposed the plan arguing that it will kill the organization. As a result, he was given two weeks notice by Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl.
"It's a serious issues for the farmers of Western Canada because we feel it is being undermined and has to be addressed," Measner said at the news conference, noting that the plan has made the future uncertain, and international investors have become wary as a result.
"It is causing some concerns internationally. We would like to get clarity on this issue as soon as possible."
CTV's David Akin, covering the news conference, suggested the Conservatives could argue they were elected with a strong majority in Saskatchewan and Alberta, and therefore have a mandate to follow through with the plan.
Easter disagreed. "Can you the media stand here and look me in the eye and say an election in which an issue that represents 2 per cent of the population -- and that's all farmers not just grain farmers -- should actually be seen as a referendum on the board? I should think not," Easter said. "In fact the Act itself states ...there should be consultation with the board and a vote of producers and that hasn't been happening."
Meanwhile, the Manitoba government will spend $80,000 on a non-binding vote on the future of the Canadian Wheat Board in an attempt to send a message to the federal government.
Wheat and barley farmers in Western Canada are required to sell their crops intended for human consumption, or international sale, only to the board.
The board, which is based in Winnipeg, doesn't handle the grain itself or own rail cars or elevators, but the CWB's staff negotiate deals to sell the grain at a single fixed price which it sets.
The board used to be a crown corporation, but since 1998 it has been run by 15 directors. Ten of the directors are elected by farmers, and five, including the president, are appointed by the government.
The federal government guarantees to cover any financial losses the Board suffers.
© Copyright 2006 CTV Inc.
CTV.ca
News Staff Updated: Wed. Dec. 6 2006 2:12 PM ET
Stephane Dion stood alongside his agriculture critic and the outgoing CEO of the Canadian Wheat Board and pledged that if he becomes prime minister he will reverse any decision by the Conservative government to dismantle the Canadian Wheat Board.
Dion, the newly elected leader of the Liberal Party, said Prime Minister Stephen Harper has effectively trampled on the board by firing its leader and muzzling the board against defending itself. "If Prime Minister (Stephen) Harper succeeds in destroying the Canadian Wheat Board ... I as a prime minister will reinstate the board," Dion told reporters.
The Conservative government has said it wants to end the decades-old monopoly and make grain farmers' participation in the body voluntary -- a move that some farmers say will kill the organization's effectiveness.
Farmers are divided on the issue, but a majority of the CWB's members, who are voted into office by grain producers, prefer the current framework laid out in the Canadian Wheat Board Act.
Adrian Measner, Wheat Board CEO, has opposed the plan arguing that it will kill the organization. As a result, he was given two weeks notice by Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl.
"It's a serious issues for the farmers of Western Canada because we feel it is being undermined and has to be addressed," Measner said at the news conference, noting that the plan has made the future uncertain, and international investors have become wary as a result.
"It is causing some concerns internationally. We would like to get clarity on this issue as soon as possible."
CTV's David Akin, covering the news conference, suggested the Conservatives could argue they were elected with a strong majority in Saskatchewan and Alberta, and therefore have a mandate to follow through with the plan.
Easter disagreed. "Can you the media stand here and look me in the eye and say an election in which an issue that represents 2 per cent of the population -- and that's all farmers not just grain farmers -- should actually be seen as a referendum on the board? I should think not," Easter said. "In fact the Act itself states ...there should be consultation with the board and a vote of producers and that hasn't been happening."
Meanwhile, the Manitoba government will spend $80,000 on a non-binding vote on the future of the Canadian Wheat Board in an attempt to send a message to the federal government.
Wheat and barley farmers in Western Canada are required to sell their crops intended for human consumption, or international sale, only to the board.
The board, which is based in Winnipeg, doesn't handle the grain itself or own rail cars or elevators, but the CWB's staff negotiate deals to sell the grain at a single fixed price which it sets.
The board used to be a crown corporation, but since 1998 it has been run by 15 directors. Ten of the directors are elected by farmers, and five, including the president, are appointed by the government.
The federal government guarantees to cover any financial losses the Board suffers.
© Copyright 2006 CTV Inc.
Tuesday, December 5, 2006
ANOTHER blow....!!
In Government VS the Canadian Wheat Board, at this stage of the game, the Board appears to be sinking under the attacks, which just seem to keep on coming. Perhaps farmers thought after the proposed changes to the Act didn't pass in the House of Commons, they would be left alone to lick their wounds and re-group.
Well, surprise, surprise, in any well planned attack, one NEVER lets one's opponent have time to re-cover. You absolutely have to keep kicking them when they are down..or weak or you will never win the war. The biggest problem the CWB has right now is that the outrage is only being heard in the House.
Is it being heard in the offices of all conservative MP's east or west? Will agriculture go to bat to save the Board or will the CWB be the first single-desk casualty? I high light this description because it is my belief, that what is happening to the CWB is a test ground for the next battle with single desk selling for all other commodities.
Perhaps eggs, dairy and others are taking the step softly approach, out of concern for their own relationship with government. Perhaps the CWB has not asked them out right..... but without a major outcry from ALL single desk-commodities, both National and Provincial, I fear the CWB is lost.
If you can not convince any Conservative MP's from the east to stand up to the Minister or the Prime Minister on this issue and take some hits .... then they are more scared of them than they are of us ( re-election!).
They absolutely believe they are safe in their home riding's, because they sure are NOT paying any attention to farmers on this issue.
The latest report from the battlefield:
Wheat Board accuses Conservatives of ignoring farmers and law
Bruce Cheadle
Canadian Press
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
OTTAWA (CP) - The president and CEO of the Canadian Wheat Board says he's being fired by the federal government for obeying the law of Parliament rather than Conservative policy.
Adrian Measner was making his first public comments since he was given two weeks' notice last week by Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl.
Measner and Ken Ritter, the CWB's chairman of the board, were supposed to address the Commons agriculture committee on Monday, but the meeting was cancelled without reason at the last moment after they had already arrived in Ottawa.
The board is battling the government over a Conservative campaign promise to end the CWB's long-standing monopoly on wheat and barley sales. The government wants to make participation voluntary, which the board argues would effectively kill the organization.
Farmers are split on the issue, but a majority of the current CWB board - elected by grain producers - wants to keep the single-desk model laid out in the Canadian Wheat Board Act.
"I find it quite ironic that . . . I have been asked to pledge support for the government's policy of marketing choice, which is not the law," Measner told a news conference on Parliament Hill. "In other words, if I continue to obey the law, I will be fired."
His comments come the same day that MPs were howling for the resignation of embattled RCMP Commissioner Giuliano Zaccardelli, who has continued to enjoy Conservative government support.
Ritter said the wheat board legislation is not clear on whether Strahl even has the power to fire Measner. "The CWB is not an agent of the government," said Ritter. "It is not a Crown corporation. All of the bills the CWB pays are paid by farmers, none is paid by the government."
And the CWB act, Ritter noted, says the board of directors is to "manage and control the organization."
Allen Oberg, a farmer from Forrestberg, Alta., who was just re-elected to the CWB board, said there are two ways to change the wheat board mandate. One is through a plebiscite of grain producers, which the Conservatives have promised to do in the new year - but only on the question of barley sales.
The other is for legislative changes in Parliament, which requires a majority of MPs.
The government has also issued a gag order on the CWB board, saying it cannot use wheat board resources to promote the single-desk model to its membership.
The board has decided to challenge that government order-in-council in court, arguing it is also outside the minister's power and calling it an infringement of their right to freedom of speech. "It's a fight they have really brought to the wheat board, not the other way around," said Oberg.
Currently, all grain farmers must sell to the board which then negotiates with buyers, guaranteeing farmers a set price. Opponents of the board, many of whom believe they could get a better price on their own, want the right to sell their own grain.
© The Canadian Press 2006
Interestingly, Minister Strahl claims in Question Period this evening, to be listening to farmers and accused the Liberals of "listening to a bunch of lawyers instead of farmers". Obviously, not enough screws are being turned by the provinces' farmers, whatever their commodity, to get Chuck to change his tune.
This latest blow could irrevocably cripple the CWB, beyond saving. It is certainly, also obvious, that a legal challenge by the Board may be the only way to stop the bleeding. The Canadian Wheat Board certainly NOW have nothing to lose in trying. Because it is also obvious that the Conservatives won't quit until they get what they want on this one.-cg
Well, surprise, surprise, in any well planned attack, one NEVER lets one's opponent have time to re-cover. You absolutely have to keep kicking them when they are down..or weak or you will never win the war. The biggest problem the CWB has right now is that the outrage is only being heard in the House.
Is it being heard in the offices of all conservative MP's east or west? Will agriculture go to bat to save the Board or will the CWB be the first single-desk casualty? I high light this description because it is my belief, that what is happening to the CWB is a test ground for the next battle with single desk selling for all other commodities.
Perhaps eggs, dairy and others are taking the step softly approach, out of concern for their own relationship with government. Perhaps the CWB has not asked them out right..... but without a major outcry from ALL single desk-commodities, both National and Provincial, I fear the CWB is lost.
If you can not convince any Conservative MP's from the east to stand up to the Minister or the Prime Minister on this issue and take some hits .... then they are more scared of them than they are of us ( re-election!).
They absolutely believe they are safe in their home riding's, because they sure are NOT paying any attention to farmers on this issue.
The latest report from the battlefield:
Wheat Board accuses Conservatives of ignoring farmers and law
Bruce Cheadle
Canadian Press
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
OTTAWA (CP) - The president and CEO of the Canadian Wheat Board says he's being fired by the federal government for obeying the law of Parliament rather than Conservative policy.
Adrian Measner was making his first public comments since he was given two weeks' notice last week by Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl.
Measner and Ken Ritter, the CWB's chairman of the board, were supposed to address the Commons agriculture committee on Monday, but the meeting was cancelled without reason at the last moment after they had already arrived in Ottawa.
The board is battling the government over a Conservative campaign promise to end the CWB's long-standing monopoly on wheat and barley sales. The government wants to make participation voluntary, which the board argues would effectively kill the organization.
Farmers are split on the issue, but a majority of the current CWB board - elected by grain producers - wants to keep the single-desk model laid out in the Canadian Wheat Board Act.
"I find it quite ironic that . . . I have been asked to pledge support for the government's policy of marketing choice, which is not the law," Measner told a news conference on Parliament Hill. "In other words, if I continue to obey the law, I will be fired."
His comments come the same day that MPs were howling for the resignation of embattled RCMP Commissioner Giuliano Zaccardelli, who has continued to enjoy Conservative government support.
Ritter said the wheat board legislation is not clear on whether Strahl even has the power to fire Measner. "The CWB is not an agent of the government," said Ritter. "It is not a Crown corporation. All of the bills the CWB pays are paid by farmers, none is paid by the government."
And the CWB act, Ritter noted, says the board of directors is to "manage and control the organization."
Allen Oberg, a farmer from Forrestberg, Alta., who was just re-elected to the CWB board, said there are two ways to change the wheat board mandate. One is through a plebiscite of grain producers, which the Conservatives have promised to do in the new year - but only on the question of barley sales.
The other is for legislative changes in Parliament, which requires a majority of MPs.
The government has also issued a gag order on the CWB board, saying it cannot use wheat board resources to promote the single-desk model to its membership.
The board has decided to challenge that government order-in-council in court, arguing it is also outside the minister's power and calling it an infringement of their right to freedom of speech. "It's a fight they have really brought to the wheat board, not the other way around," said Oberg.
Currently, all grain farmers must sell to the board which then negotiates with buyers, guaranteeing farmers a set price. Opponents of the board, many of whom believe they could get a better price on their own, want the right to sell their own grain.
© The Canadian Press 2006
Interestingly, Minister Strahl claims in Question Period this evening, to be listening to farmers and accused the Liberals of "listening to a bunch of lawyers instead of farmers". Obviously, not enough screws are being turned by the provinces' farmers, whatever their commodity, to get Chuck to change his tune.
This latest blow could irrevocably cripple the CWB, beyond saving. It is certainly, also obvious, that a legal challenge by the Board may be the only way to stop the bleeding. The Canadian Wheat Board certainly NOW have nothing to lose in trying. Because it is also obvious that the Conservatives won't quit until they get what they want on this one.-cg
Saturday, December 2, 2006
And the Winner is......
By now, most of you will know that the new leader of the Liberal Party of Canada is Stephan Dion. M. Dion has thought about many aspects of Canada that he believes need to be supported and/or re-newed. By all accounts, he is a leader of a different stripe. If you were so inclined, to-day you could watch it all from start to finish on CTV.
Pre-Convention M. Dion spoke about agriculture:
Our Farmers Deserve Respect
Our hard-working farmers deserve the unqualified respect and gratitude of their fellow Canadians. Their contribution to the fabric of our nation does not receive the recognition it should. I know the difficult position our farmers find themselves in as they try to earn a good living – to prosper - in the face of unfair subsidies paid by the Americans and the Europeans. Our farming families work so hard and were it not for unfair competition they would be the most competitive in the world.
I am determined to help our farmers face this challenge. We must always maintain a strong capacity to grow our own food. We need to stand with farm families during this trade dispute so they can enjoy a productive and successful working life, that at the same time provides for the needs of Canadians. I will fight for our important Canadian farming institutions – our way of doing thing - supply management, the Canadian Wheat board, as well as egg and milk protections for decent prices.
I also want to help farmers create new markets in the new sustainable economy, in areas such as ethanol, bio-fuels, low-till practices, wind power and other new technologies. That means ensuring farm families can participate in the entire value chain from growing crops – getting value for both crop and waste – and a way to make money also from the value added processes that create ethanol or bio-fuel. We will work together to create the most sustainable and competitive farm sector in the world. Give me the opportunity, and I will be the leader to do all this for our farmers
For some insight into M. Dion. that I believe to be true see Don't Count Out Stephan Dion
Pre-Convention M. Dion spoke about agriculture:
Our Farmers Deserve Respect
Our hard-working farmers deserve the unqualified respect and gratitude of their fellow Canadians. Their contribution to the fabric of our nation does not receive the recognition it should. I know the difficult position our farmers find themselves in as they try to earn a good living – to prosper - in the face of unfair subsidies paid by the Americans and the Europeans. Our farming families work so hard and were it not for unfair competition they would be the most competitive in the world.
I am determined to help our farmers face this challenge. We must always maintain a strong capacity to grow our own food. We need to stand with farm families during this trade dispute so they can enjoy a productive and successful working life, that at the same time provides for the needs of Canadians. I will fight for our important Canadian farming institutions – our way of doing thing - supply management, the Canadian Wheat board, as well as egg and milk protections for decent prices.
I also want to help farmers create new markets in the new sustainable economy, in areas such as ethanol, bio-fuels, low-till practices, wind power and other new technologies. That means ensuring farm families can participate in the entire value chain from growing crops – getting value for both crop and waste – and a way to make money also from the value added processes that create ethanol or bio-fuel. We will work together to create the most sustainable and competitive farm sector in the world. Give me the opportunity, and I will be the leader to do all this for our farmers
For some insight into M. Dion. that I believe to be true see Don't Count Out Stephan Dion
More on Resolutions
From DFC-ACTION FAX
The Liberal Rural Caucus led by Chair Ken Boshcoff, an MP in Thunder Bay and Nick Whyte, a poultry farmer and Liberal delegate from Huron-Bruce, were instrumental in ensuring that these resolution were sent to plenary. The supply management resolution was overwhelmingly supported by the Liberal delegates at plenary on Thursday morning during the adoption of policy resolutions.
Should you wish to have more information on the resolutions, please visit:
http://www.liberal.ca/pdf/docs/061201_resolution_en.pdf
Resolution on Supply management
WHEREAS the Canadian agriculture and agrifood sector is integral to our high standard of living; and
WHEREAS the Liberal Party of Canada committed in 2004 Moving Canada Forward Platform
Bulletin on Supporting Canada’s Farmers to defend orderly marketing system, including supply management systems for dairy, poultry and eggs; and
WHEREAS the Prime Minister’s Caucus Task Force on Future Opportunities in Farming recommended that the federal government continue to uphold our orderly marketing systems in all fronts and against all challenges; and
WHEREAS there are immediate threats to the import controls pillar, thereby threatening one of the three pillars upon which supply management stands; and
WHEREAS these threats are leading to the erosion of the domestic market for dairy, poultry and eggs;
BE IT RESOLVED that the Liberal Party of Canada urge the federal government to reaffirm its commitment to supply management and the sectors under supply management whose producers provide Canadians with the highest quality of dairy, poultry and egg products; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Liberal Party of Canada urge the federal government to formally recognize and reflect in agriculture and trade initiatives the three pillars of supply management as: import controls, producer pricing and production planning; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Liberal Party of Canada urge the federal government to reflect their commitment to supply management and the three pillars through the realization of new tariff rate quotas for dairy products under Canada’s WTO commitments.
The Liberal Party of Canada
Bravo, to those in attendance-cg
The Liberal Rural Caucus led by Chair Ken Boshcoff, an MP in Thunder Bay and Nick Whyte, a poultry farmer and Liberal delegate from Huron-Bruce, were instrumental in ensuring that these resolution were sent to plenary. The supply management resolution was overwhelmingly supported by the Liberal delegates at plenary on Thursday morning during the adoption of policy resolutions.
Should you wish to have more information on the resolutions, please visit:
http://www.liberal.ca/pdf/docs/061201_resolution_en.pdf
Resolution on Supply management
WHEREAS the Canadian agriculture and agrifood sector is integral to our high standard of living; and
WHEREAS the Liberal Party of Canada committed in 2004 Moving Canada Forward Platform
Bulletin on Supporting Canada’s Farmers to defend orderly marketing system, including supply management systems for dairy, poultry and eggs; and
WHEREAS the Prime Minister’s Caucus Task Force on Future Opportunities in Farming recommended that the federal government continue to uphold our orderly marketing systems in all fronts and against all challenges; and
WHEREAS there are immediate threats to the import controls pillar, thereby threatening one of the three pillars upon which supply management stands; and
WHEREAS these threats are leading to the erosion of the domestic market for dairy, poultry and eggs;
BE IT RESOLVED that the Liberal Party of Canada urge the federal government to reaffirm its commitment to supply management and the sectors under supply management whose producers provide Canadians with the highest quality of dairy, poultry and egg products; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Liberal Party of Canada urge the federal government to formally recognize and reflect in agriculture and trade initiatives the three pillars of supply management as: import controls, producer pricing and production planning; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Liberal Party of Canada urge the federal government to reflect their commitment to supply management and the three pillars through the realization of new tariff rate quotas for dairy products under Canada’s WTO commitments.
The Liberal Party of Canada
Bravo, to those in attendance-cg
Friday, November 24, 2006
A Change in the Wind ..?
Over the years, we have watched agriculture in general struggle with the vagaries of prices, imports, new WTO rules, new food safety rules, retail distribution, processor and retail consolidation, etc.,etc. The dairy industry has had it's fair share of concerns and issues to deal with as well as those mentioned above. In general, from the farmers perspective, one could say that agriculture in this country does not receive the attention that should be warrented by our governments.
Any change in that attitude has come at the cost of hard, hard work by the commodiites invovlved and are mostly regionalised (provincial). They are also only as good as the government of the day and the skill or tenacitiy of the farm commodity involved. Governments have to do better than this for Canada and her agricultural resources.
In this respect, the crazed handling by the current government of the Canadian Wheat Board Issue, has had one large positive come forward out of it.
In a few short days the Liberal Party of Canada is closing on the hunt for a new leader. But policy discussion is also part of the Convention. From the disasters of the past few years and recent times, have come some stunning resolutions to this Convention.
The most notable: from the Policy Workshops to the 2006 leadership and biennial convention
N o v e m b e r 2 9 - D e c e m b e r 3 , 2 0 0 6
M o n t r e a l , Q u e b e c
M o n t r e a l , Q u e b e c
34) Canadian Food Policy
WHEREAS Canadian farming is at a critical juncture; and
WHEREAS the agricultural producers have invested to produce high-quality foods; and
WHEREAS the cost of producing this high-quality food cannot be recaptured through the pricing of the products to consumers; and
WHEREAS the U.S., Europe and other trading countries use creative means of paying their agricultural producers through environmental, tourism, and other creative avenues in order to ensure their farmers maintain a reasonable return for their costs;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Liberal Party of Canada develop a Canadian food policy that addresses the current economic realities and ensures that Canadian agricultural producers are able to make a reasonable income as they produce the highquality food required for Canada.
New Brunswick Liberal Association
Liberal Party of Prince Edward Island
E c o n o m i c P o l i c y
WHEREAS government agricultural programs and policies in recent years have been designed on the premise of a successful outcome of the Doha round of WTO negotiations : talks aimed at reducing domestic supports, increasing market access, eliminating export subsidies and maintaining our supply management system as well as the Canadian Wheat Board; and
WHEREAS these talks have failed, making decisive action necessary to help Canadian producers face a new economic and policy reality; and
WHEREAS Canadian producers must have sustainable incomes and all partners in the agri-food production chain deserve the opportunity to succeed and be profitable; and
WHEREAS Canada has no formal strategy to maintain a safe, affordable food supply;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Liberal Party of Canada supports setting as a national priority the establishment of a fully funded and long-term National Food Security Policy which views the nation's ability to produce safe and reliable agricultural products as an issue of national sovereignty and security; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Liberal Party of Canada supports the provision of an immediate and one-time cash investment into the agricultural sectors, at the primary producer level, of $3.66 billion.
National Liberal Caucus
Note: There is a least one more in addition to the above.-CG
Let's wish them well and hope some of these policies see the light of day, soon.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Almost a Disaster .....
For all those in the dairy industry who do NOT understand that we are living in a new world....
The only place I have found this report is in an Ontario agricultural newspaper & FSnet, a food safety Internet page. Lucky, lucky dairy farmers, that this is NOT being seen in the major papers.
How they could have missed this one is any body's guess. Traceability has advanced to the point they can and did identify the VAT # the tainted batch came from. If you can't be bothered to read this article.....think again. The judge awarded $5,019,091.50, to Schneider's . Did the plant contaminate the batch or did the milk arrive that way? The article does not speak to this issue, but dairy farmers had better think about it long and hard.-CG
SCHNEIDER WINS FOOD POISONING SUIT; A JUDGE HAS AWARDED COURT COSTS, DISBURSEMENTS AND INTEREST TO SCHNEIDER IN ITS CASE AGAINST PARMALAT
November 14, 2006Ontario Farmer
Jim Romahn
What is open to public scrutiny is a small file containing documents and letters lawyers filed as they argued over court costs. The judge awarded costs in the case to Schneider Corp. Schneider claimed fees of $2,219,441.50 and disbursement costs of $772,067.22, but Justice Wright called the fees "absurd". Parmalat countered that the fees ought to be no more than $848,352.71 and disbursements $462,307.56. The judge set the fees at $884,518 and disbursements at $517,128.54 and tacked on $1,726,420.72 for interest. His judgement in favour of Schneider Corp. was $5,019,091.50, so the bottom line came to $8,197,158.70. At one point Schneider Corp. offered to settle for $6.8 million, but Parmalat did not accept.
That's what Schneider's lawyers said in their letter to Justice Wright to explain why the costs rose so high. They said Parmalat fought the case on every front, throwing up a myriad of possibilities for the source of salmonella bacteria that contaminated Schneider Lunchmate products that sickened thousands of Canadians, including many school children who had the snacks packed in their lunches.
Parmalat even fought inclusion of Canadian Food Inspection Agency test results right up to the beginning of the trial and it fought inclusion of provincial lab results until it finally yielded on that point five days into the trial.
Justice Wright put all of the blame on Parmalat and that's why he awarded Schneider Corp. more than $5 million, plus interest plus costs. The interest, at five per cent, accumulated from 1998, when the food poisoning occurred, to May, 2005, when Wright issued his decision. Justice Wright said Schneider Corp. made "a poor use of resources" in putting 10 lawyers, four articling students and nine law clerks on the case. Schneider's law firm was Gowling, Lafleur, Henderson. Parmalat hired Dutton, Brock.
The documents indicate Schneider's paid $5,504.63 for the appearances of 10 witnesses and $557,561.33 for experts. Parmalat's costs for witnesses, experts and legal fees are not disclosed in the court documents.
Schneider originally sued for between $7,999,000 and $8,352,000 plus an unspecified amount for defamation. Schneider's lawyers withdrew the defamation claim during the trial, but wanted to add $1.5 million to $2 million to cover increases in insurance premiums. Wright originally awarded Schneider Corp. $4,660,291.50 on May 20, but when Schneider Corp. pointed out another $300,000 for products other than its Lunchmate lines that were involved in recalls, and $58,800 for days lost from production, Wright agreed to add them for a new total judgment of $5,019,091.50 he awarded June 6.
Schneider was making two private-label products - No-name Lunch Box and Our Best Lunchkins - that were involved in recalls. No contamination was ever found in those lines. The court documents indicate that the judge decided that the salmonella that poisoned consumers came from Parmalat vat 1804 manufactured at Millbank.
Note: emphasis mine-CG
Friday, November 17, 2006
Uh Oh?!
The cat is out of the bag when Conservative MP's start to talk. I am glad to see some of them remember this country is a democracy. I wonder what other jewels we will see in the coming weeks. -CG
Let farmers decide about wheat board, Tory MP says
JOE FRIESEN 11/11/06 Globe and Mail
WINNIPEG -- A Conservative MP from Manitoba is breaking ranks with his colleagues over the Canadian Wheat Board, saying the government is ignoring its own polls that show two-thirds of farmers in Manitoba and Saskatchewan don't want to see major changes to the board.
Inky Mark, MP for Dauphin-Swan River-Marquette, said the future of the wheat board is by far the most important issue in his constituency and he's proud to be a dissenting voice in caucus.
"There's a huge support base for the wheat board here. At least, at a minimum, two out of three votes, if not higher," he said. "Whatever changes should take place should be made by the farmers, not the politicians -- that's basically what I hear everywhere I go. Let the farmers decide."
Mr. Mark said he has urged his caucus colleagues to reconsider their campaign pledge to end the wheat board monopoly on export sales of wheat and barley, but to no avail.
More than 60 per cent of Manitoba farmers support the wheat board, and the number may be even higher in his riding, he said.
"It's probably at least two out of three support the board. . . . Saskatchewan's about the same. I've seen lots of numbers, both government and non-government. Alberta's a different kettle of fish -- about one-third supports the board and two-thirds want to dismantle it," Mr. Mark said.
The wheat board falls under Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl's portfolio, but Mr. Mark said responsibility for the issue lies with Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
"It's not Chuck Strahl," Mr. Mark said. "He's basically following orders."
Mr. Strahl recently announced plans for a plebiscite among barley producers early in the new year, but has said he has no immediate plans to hold a vote on whether to keep the board's monopoly for wheat.
A spokesman said yesterday that implementing marketing choice for wheat and barley remains a government priority.
The issue has been hotly contested in the prairie provinces. Farm groups in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, where about 75 per cent of western wheat is grown, say the wheat board gives farmers clout in an industry dominated by a handful of multinational companies. Their opponents say they want the freedom to sell their wheat independently, and believe they can earn more money without the board. The wheat board has annual sales of more than $4-billion, and exports wheat to 70 countries.
In Saskatoon yesterday, the NDP premiers of Manitoba and Saskatchewan said they will hold their own plebiscites on the future of the wheat board if the federal government refuses to act, even if such a vote would be largely symbolic. They said farmers should be allowed to determine their own future.
********
See Wendy Holm's website for the details at the link below-CG
MP Inky Mark's media release: Mark supports constituents
- votes against Bill to bypass the Canadian Wheat Board
Let farmers decide about wheat board, Tory MP says
JOE FRIESEN 11/11/06 Globe and Mail
WINNIPEG -- A Conservative MP from Manitoba is breaking ranks with his colleagues over the Canadian Wheat Board, saying the government is ignoring its own polls that show two-thirds of farmers in Manitoba and Saskatchewan don't want to see major changes to the board.
Inky Mark, MP for Dauphin-Swan River-Marquette, said the future of the wheat board is by far the most important issue in his constituency and he's proud to be a dissenting voice in caucus.
"There's a huge support base for the wheat board here. At least, at a minimum, two out of three votes, if not higher," he said. "Whatever changes should take place should be made by the farmers, not the politicians -- that's basically what I hear everywhere I go. Let the farmers decide."
Mr. Mark said he has urged his caucus colleagues to reconsider their campaign pledge to end the wheat board monopoly on export sales of wheat and barley, but to no avail.
More than 60 per cent of Manitoba farmers support the wheat board, and the number may be even higher in his riding, he said.
"It's probably at least two out of three support the board. . . . Saskatchewan's about the same. I've seen lots of numbers, both government and non-government. Alberta's a different kettle of fish -- about one-third supports the board and two-thirds want to dismantle it," Mr. Mark said.
The wheat board falls under Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl's portfolio, but Mr. Mark said responsibility for the issue lies with Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
"It's not Chuck Strahl," Mr. Mark said. "He's basically following orders."
Mr. Strahl recently announced plans for a plebiscite among barley producers early in the new year, but has said he has no immediate plans to hold a vote on whether to keep the board's monopoly for wheat.
A spokesman said yesterday that implementing marketing choice for wheat and barley remains a government priority.
The issue has been hotly contested in the prairie provinces. Farm groups in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, where about 75 per cent of western wheat is grown, say the wheat board gives farmers clout in an industry dominated by a handful of multinational companies. Their opponents say they want the freedom to sell their wheat independently, and believe they can earn more money without the board. The wheat board has annual sales of more than $4-billion, and exports wheat to 70 countries.
In Saskatoon yesterday, the NDP premiers of Manitoba and Saskatchewan said they will hold their own plebiscites on the future of the wheat board if the federal government refuses to act, even if such a vote would be largely symbolic. They said farmers should be allowed to determine their own future.
********
See Wendy Holm's website for the details at the link below-CG
MP Inky Mark's media release: Mark supports constituents
- votes against Bill to bypass the Canadian Wheat Board
Saturday, November 11, 2006
Nov. 11, 2006
November 11th is Remembrance Day. This day is special as it marks for "remembrance", all those battles fought by my Father and grandfather and others before them and all those that are lost. I can honour their gift to us, while I rail at those who so blithely want to abuse them. My Father and those young men from other wars... preserved for us the irreplaceable gift of 'freedom'!
Make sure you do not take it for granted.
It's hard to see our elderly vets and understand what it was like for those young men. To get a sense of those battles and lives lost there are a few sites you can visit.
>
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Full Steam Ahead!!
On Oct. 27th, the Standing Committee on Agricriculture was hearing testimony. One of it's witnesses was Wendy Holm, Agrologist and Farm Writer. For the official hansard version of questions and presentations see : http://www.theholmteam.ca/CWB.html
To-day, it looks like the Advisory group for Minister Strahl has performed their appointed task... to deliver their 'expert' opinion on the Canadian Wheat Board's survival. They have handed him the poisoned dart he schemed to get. I have no words to describe a democratic process so blatant with it's intended role and a Minister that allowed it to be put together. The Government looks like it is going 'full steam ahead' no matter what. Remember that was the last action of the Titanic, too!
To get the latest malarkey from the trained seals see : Hansard Search Results
After the latest free for all, Alex Atamanenko, Member of Parliament for BC Southern Interior – NDP Agriculture Critic, issued this Press Release:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 31, 2006
Task Force Report on the Future of the Canadian Wheat Board
“A Waste of Human Energy”
Ottawa, ON: Alex Atamanenko, Member of Parliament for BC Southern Interior – NDP Agriculture Critic, says the Harper team has wasted tax dollars on a hollow task force report which refuses to recognize the limited powers of a minority government to legally implement any of the recommendations they have put forward. “This report is an incredible waste of human energy which accomplishes little but adds considerable confusion to the whole issue of the future of the Canadian Wheat Board (CWB)”, stated Atamanenko
“The Conservatives are well aware of the fact that without a majority they cannot deconstruct the Canadian Wheat Board through legislation without the support of Parliament. That’s why for some time now they have been employing a strategy designed to inject confusion and chaos into the daily lives of the CWB directors and the 85,000 farmers they are mandated to represent”, observed Atamanenko.
He pointed to a few of the government actions taken against the CWB to emphasize the lengths they have taken to act outside of their limited legislative means:
July 27 roundtable stacked with the anti-Wheat Board Corporate grain companies.
Creation of a severely unbalanced Task Force who are given only 4 weeks to create a whole new marketing strategy for the grain industry and provide a report
Imposing a change to the rules of a director election process half way through the election and making it very cumbersome for a third of the eligible farmers to vote.
Lying that the CWB supported this action when the facts show that the Minister of Agriculture was advised by the board to make any changes to the election rules or voters lists months before the election began.
Imposing a gag order on the CWB to prevent them from advocating on behalf of farmers and then timing the release of the anti-Wheat Board task force report to be released near the actual CWB director election time.
Firing an appointed Wheat Board director, Ross Keith, a single desk supporter a year before his appointment ends.
The task force report admits that there will be winners and losers as part of any adjustment to marketing choice. They make it clear that there are many competitors who will have an advantage over the CWB and there will be a significant risk of failure if they are not well prepared to enter into the new competitive environment.
“Why would any business, farming or otherwise, willingly give up a tried and true system which has been proven to have significant benefits in order to adopt a new system fraught with uncertainty”, questioned Atamanenko.
One aspect of the report stated that the success of the CWB would depend on producer support investing in 100 million shares valued at a $1 each. “Producers might be hesitant to buy $1 shares to invest in such an uncertain future”, noted Atamanenko. “I’m also concerned that the CWB will be just another grain company with no power to secure and maintain quality world markets”.
Absent in the report is any sign of an impact analysis on farmers throughout any of the four stages of the recommendations. “If there is an increase in rail rates to put them on par with the US, how will that affect the Port of Churchill and how many jobs will be lost”, questioned Atamanenko. “How will farmers fare when they find themselves at the mercy of the multi-nationals who set the prices?”
There is a question of whether a minority of aggressive free-enterprising individuals should be allowed to destroy a working system within which the majority of farmers benefit. “This is not the USA where the philosophy of “survival of the fittest” prevails. We have worked out a co-operative approach in Canada which has become a part of our national identity,” noted Atamanenko.
“Farmers today are suffering not because of collective marketing but because of an unfair advantage in the world market place due to foreign subsidies and support programs. Taking away the CWB will only put our farmers at a greater disadvantage.”
Another disturbing recommendation in the report is for the Government to immediately start a marketing campaign to promote the recommendations in this report.
“Nowhere in sight is the opportunity for 85,000 farmers to express their views through a plebiscite. Instead they will see the government spend tax dollars to advertise and promote the means to an end of 60 years of progressive marketing innovation under the Canadian Wheat Board whose only mandate is to work solely in the best interests of farmers.” stated Atamanenko.
- 30-
For more information please contact: Alex Atamanenko - (613) 996-8036
*********************
So first the government ties the hands of the Wheat Board by ordering them to only 'market' and then a recommendation comes forward that the "government" promote hostile recommendations? Perhaps it is time for some tough legal action by someone.-cg
To-day, it looks like the Advisory group for Minister Strahl has performed their appointed task... to deliver their 'expert' opinion on the Canadian Wheat Board's survival. They have handed him the poisoned dart he schemed to get. I have no words to describe a democratic process so blatant with it's intended role and a Minister that allowed it to be put together. The Government looks like it is going 'full steam ahead' no matter what. Remember that was the last action of the Titanic, too!
To get the latest malarkey from the trained seals see : Hansard Search Results
After the latest free for all, Alex Atamanenko, Member of Parliament for BC Southern Interior – NDP Agriculture Critic, issued this Press Release:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 31, 2006
Task Force Report on the Future of the Canadian Wheat Board
“A Waste of Human Energy”
Ottawa, ON: Alex Atamanenko, Member of Parliament for BC Southern Interior – NDP Agriculture Critic, says the Harper team has wasted tax dollars on a hollow task force report which refuses to recognize the limited powers of a minority government to legally implement any of the recommendations they have put forward. “This report is an incredible waste of human energy which accomplishes little but adds considerable confusion to the whole issue of the future of the Canadian Wheat Board (CWB)”, stated Atamanenko
“The Conservatives are well aware of the fact that without a majority they cannot deconstruct the Canadian Wheat Board through legislation without the support of Parliament. That’s why for some time now they have been employing a strategy designed to inject confusion and chaos into the daily lives of the CWB directors and the 85,000 farmers they are mandated to represent”, observed Atamanenko.
He pointed to a few of the government actions taken against the CWB to emphasize the lengths they have taken to act outside of their limited legislative means:
July 27 roundtable stacked with the anti-Wheat Board Corporate grain companies.
Creation of a severely unbalanced Task Force who are given only 4 weeks to create a whole new marketing strategy for the grain industry and provide a report
Imposing a change to the rules of a director election process half way through the election and making it very cumbersome for a third of the eligible farmers to vote.
Lying that the CWB supported this action when the facts show that the Minister of Agriculture was advised by the board to make any changes to the election rules or voters lists months before the election began.
Imposing a gag order on the CWB to prevent them from advocating on behalf of farmers and then timing the release of the anti-Wheat Board task force report to be released near the actual CWB director election time.
Firing an appointed Wheat Board director, Ross Keith, a single desk supporter a year before his appointment ends.
The task force report admits that there will be winners and losers as part of any adjustment to marketing choice. They make it clear that there are many competitors who will have an advantage over the CWB and there will be a significant risk of failure if they are not well prepared to enter into the new competitive environment.
“Why would any business, farming or otherwise, willingly give up a tried and true system which has been proven to have significant benefits in order to adopt a new system fraught with uncertainty”, questioned Atamanenko.
One aspect of the report stated that the success of the CWB would depend on producer support investing in 100 million shares valued at a $1 each. “Producers might be hesitant to buy $1 shares to invest in such an uncertain future”, noted Atamanenko. “I’m also concerned that the CWB will be just another grain company with no power to secure and maintain quality world markets”.
Absent in the report is any sign of an impact analysis on farmers throughout any of the four stages of the recommendations. “If there is an increase in rail rates to put them on par with the US, how will that affect the Port of Churchill and how many jobs will be lost”, questioned Atamanenko. “How will farmers fare when they find themselves at the mercy of the multi-nationals who set the prices?”
There is a question of whether a minority of aggressive free-enterprising individuals should be allowed to destroy a working system within which the majority of farmers benefit. “This is not the USA where the philosophy of “survival of the fittest” prevails. We have worked out a co-operative approach in Canada which has become a part of our national identity,” noted Atamanenko.
“Farmers today are suffering not because of collective marketing but because of an unfair advantage in the world market place due to foreign subsidies and support programs. Taking away the CWB will only put our farmers at a greater disadvantage.”
Another disturbing recommendation in the report is for the Government to immediately start a marketing campaign to promote the recommendations in this report.
“Nowhere in sight is the opportunity for 85,000 farmers to express their views through a plebiscite. Instead they will see the government spend tax dollars to advertise and promote the means to an end of 60 years of progressive marketing innovation under the Canadian Wheat Board whose only mandate is to work solely in the best interests of farmers.” stated Atamanenko.
- 30-
For more information please contact: Alex Atamanenko - (613) 996-8036
*********************
So first the government ties the hands of the Wheat Board by ordering them to only 'market' and then a recommendation comes forward that the "government" promote hostile recommendations? Perhaps it is time for some tough legal action by someone.-cg
Thursday, October 26, 2006
The CWB Speaks......
The CWB is not going to roll over and play dead for the Conservatives. -cg
It's un-Canadian not to give farmers a say in wheat board's future: president
Michelle Macafee
Canadian Press
Friday, October 20, 2006
WINNIPEG (CP) - It would be un-Canadian for the federal government to quash the Canadian Wheat Board's monopoly without first consulting farmers, board president Adrian Measner said Thursday.
In a pointed address to the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, Measner said any unilateral decision by the Conservatives would make a mockery of farmers' democratic rights.
"We're being told that government will proceed with the implementation of its election promise to create an open market for wheat and barley, regardless of what a majority of farmers think," said Measner.
"This is as wrong as it is un-Canadian."
He concluded his speech by saying the issue is about "democracy and the economic future of Western Canada and, in the final analysis, it's about being Canadian and doing what's right."
The board has been at loggerheads with the federal Conservatives ever since federal Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl appointed a task force last month to recommend ways to end the board's monopoly on wheat and barley exports.
Measner and other executives have said the Canadian Wheat Board Act requires a plebiscite before the monopolies are removed, and that a vote should have been held even before the task force set to work.
Strahl has said he wants to see the committee's recommendations before deciding whether to let farmers vote.
He and other Tories have said some changes can be made without a plebiscite and that the party has a mandate from voters because its intentions were clear in its election platform.
Measner said the government shouldn't mistake votes in last January's federal election for support for this particular platform plank.
"There was gun control, there was the performance of the previous government - there are just a whole bunch of other factors in an election," said Measner.
"I think it's unfair to say it (the federal election) was run on the CWB issue."
The board's monopoly has long divided Western Canadian farmers.
Supporters say the board - which is the marketing agent for 85,000 producers - is the best option in a fiercely competitive global grain industry.
But plenty of farmers oppose the board's monopoly, saying they want the right to try to get better prices on their own.
During an appearance on a Winnipeg radio call-in show, a caller named "Jim" challenged Measner and the wheat board .
"We know how to do business out here in the rural," Jim said.
"We don't need the elitist sort of control of an Adrian Measner telling us how to grow our grain and market it."
The debate over the future of the board is being watched closely by prominent international wheat customers.
Warburton's Bakery, the biggest bakery in the United Kingdom, has wheat board contracts with 750 Prairie farmers to produce about 250,000 tonnes of wheat a year.
Executive director Brett Warburton, who heard Measner's speech, said Warburton has been more than pleased with the service it gets from the board.
While the relationship has been challenging at times, he said the board's ability to meet its contracts - even in poor crop years - is invaluable.
"We're a bit nervous about any changes that would take place," said Warburton.
He said the company relies on Canada exclusively for its grain imports, and he fears having to look to other countries to fill its orders.
"If you lose a customer for one year it can be lost for a long time beyond that."
Measner said he's confident his speech did not violate a recent government ban that forbids the board from advocating in favour of its monopoly.
The order specifically bans the board from spending money on advertising, publishing or market research, but does not prevent individual farmers or executives from expressing their views.
In his speech, Measner also tried to rally support from the business audience by pointing out the board's net impact on the Manitoba economy was pegged at $210 million in 2004.
He said the loss of the board's single desk will leave Winnipeg and Manitoba with "another bunch of downtown vacancies and empty office towers to fill" due to consolidation in the grain industry.
© The Canadian Press 2006
It's un-Canadian not to give farmers a say in wheat board's future: president
Michelle Macafee
Canadian Press
Friday, October 20, 2006
WINNIPEG (CP) - It would be un-Canadian for the federal government to quash the Canadian Wheat Board's monopoly without first consulting farmers, board president Adrian Measner said Thursday.
In a pointed address to the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, Measner said any unilateral decision by the Conservatives would make a mockery of farmers' democratic rights.
"We're being told that government will proceed with the implementation of its election promise to create an open market for wheat and barley, regardless of what a majority of farmers think," said Measner.
"This is as wrong as it is un-Canadian."
He concluded his speech by saying the issue is about "democracy and the economic future of Western Canada and, in the final analysis, it's about being Canadian and doing what's right."
The board has been at loggerheads with the federal Conservatives ever since federal Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl appointed a task force last month to recommend ways to end the board's monopoly on wheat and barley exports.
Measner and other executives have said the Canadian Wheat Board Act requires a plebiscite before the monopolies are removed, and that a vote should have been held even before the task force set to work.
Strahl has said he wants to see the committee's recommendations before deciding whether to let farmers vote.
He and other Tories have said some changes can be made without a plebiscite and that the party has a mandate from voters because its intentions were clear in its election platform.
Measner said the government shouldn't mistake votes in last January's federal election for support for this particular platform plank.
"There was gun control, there was the performance of the previous government - there are just a whole bunch of other factors in an election," said Measner.
"I think it's unfair to say it (the federal election) was run on the CWB issue."
The board's monopoly has long divided Western Canadian farmers.
Supporters say the board - which is the marketing agent for 85,000 producers - is the best option in a fiercely competitive global grain industry.
But plenty of farmers oppose the board's monopoly, saying they want the right to try to get better prices on their own.
During an appearance on a Winnipeg radio call-in show, a caller named "Jim" challenged Measner and the wheat board .
"We know how to do business out here in the rural," Jim said.
"We don't need the elitist sort of control of an Adrian Measner telling us how to grow our grain and market it."
The debate over the future of the board is being watched closely by prominent international wheat customers.
Warburton's Bakery, the biggest bakery in the United Kingdom, has wheat board contracts with 750 Prairie farmers to produce about 250,000 tonnes of wheat a year.
Executive director Brett Warburton, who heard Measner's speech, said Warburton has been more than pleased with the service it gets from the board.
While the relationship has been challenging at times, he said the board's ability to meet its contracts - even in poor crop years - is invaluable.
"We're a bit nervous about any changes that would take place," said Warburton.
He said the company relies on Canada exclusively for its grain imports, and he fears having to look to other countries to fill its orders.
"If you lose a customer for one year it can be lost for a long time beyond that."
Measner said he's confident his speech did not violate a recent government ban that forbids the board from advocating in favour of its monopoly.
The order specifically bans the board from spending money on advertising, publishing or market research, but does not prevent individual farmers or executives from expressing their views.
In his speech, Measner also tried to rally support from the business audience by pointing out the board's net impact on the Manitoba economy was pegged at $210 million in 2004.
He said the loss of the board's single desk will leave Winnipeg and Manitoba with "another bunch of downtown vacancies and empty office towers to fill" due to consolidation in the grain industry.
© The Canadian Press 2006
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
The Press Does It's Job.......
The press is now really beginning to pick up the debate on the future of the CWB. In the backyard of the current government , the accusations pile up.-cg
October 19, 2006
CALGARY HERALD
PAGE: D12 (CALGARY BUSINESS)
Opposition fights for wheat board
Tories accused of 'ideological madness'
CanWest News Service
Tory plans to make good on their Canadian Wheat Board election promise faced an all-party attack Wednesday as the Liberals, NDP and Bloc Quebecois ganged up on the Harper government in a bid to save the board's marketing monopoly.
For more than two hours in the Commons, an often passionate debate raged as the opposition pushed for a motion requiring the government to hold a plebiscite among Prairie farmers on the key change experts believe would essentially kill the Winnipeg-based marketer of wheat and barley.
"What will the Conservatives not do to destroy single desk selling under the Canadian Wheat Board?" asked Liberal agriculture critic Wayne Easter, who moved the motion.
"What will it not do to take power away from primary producers and give that power to the international grain trade? What will it not do to tear down a marketing institution that has become renowned around the world for how it maximizes returns back to primary producers?
What will the Conservative government not do in terms of catering to its American friends in the grain trade who have challenged the Canadian Wheat Board 11 times and have lost every time under international trade law?
"From its actions to date, it would appear that the government is prepared to use any device up to the very line of legality in an effort to undermine the Canadian Wheat Board" said New Democrat MP Pat Martin, whose Winnipeg Centre riding is home to the board's headquarters: "There is no business case for abolishing the Canadian Wheat Board -- it is pure ideological madness."
The debate over the future of the wheat board has been moving rapidly up the national agenda, fueled in part by a gag order the cabinet slapped on the board preventing it from defending its marketing monopoly. As well, the opposition has alleged the Tories are tampering in the election of its directors by striking 16,000 farmers from the voter list.
However, Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl continued to refuse to commit to a plebiscite before moving ahead on their campaign promise. "The government will do what farmers have always wanted, which is to have a range of marketing choices, including the wheat board," Harper said.
"We are never going to be afraid to consult western farmers because the last time we did it, like so many times when we had done it in this country, they did not return a single Liberal MP, and they never will."
Strahl said Easter's motion was "ridiculous" and shot back at Bloc agriculture critic Andre Bellavance's defence of the wheat board by painting him as a hypocrite.
"When is the honourable member for the Bloc going to bring in the motion to expand the wheat board to make sure that it covers Quebec? He will not do that. Do you know why?" Strahl asked. "It is because he does not want the wheat board. He does not want the wheat board to affect his business in his province."
October 19, 2006
CALGARY HERALD
PAGE: D12 (CALGARY BUSINESS)
Opposition fights for wheat board
Tories accused of 'ideological madness'
CanWest News Service
Tory plans to make good on their Canadian Wheat Board election promise faced an all-party attack Wednesday as the Liberals, NDP and Bloc Quebecois ganged up on the Harper government in a bid to save the board's marketing monopoly.
For more than two hours in the Commons, an often passionate debate raged as the opposition pushed for a motion requiring the government to hold a plebiscite among Prairie farmers on the key change experts believe would essentially kill the Winnipeg-based marketer of wheat and barley.
"What will the Conservatives not do to destroy single desk selling under the Canadian Wheat Board?" asked Liberal agriculture critic Wayne Easter, who moved the motion.
"What will it not do to take power away from primary producers and give that power to the international grain trade? What will it not do to tear down a marketing institution that has become renowned around the world for how it maximizes returns back to primary producers?
What will the Conservative government not do in terms of catering to its American friends in the grain trade who have challenged the Canadian Wheat Board 11 times and have lost every time under international trade law?
"From its actions to date, it would appear that the government is prepared to use any device up to the very line of legality in an effort to undermine the Canadian Wheat Board" said New Democrat MP Pat Martin, whose Winnipeg Centre riding is home to the board's headquarters: "There is no business case for abolishing the Canadian Wheat Board -- it is pure ideological madness."
The debate over the future of the wheat board has been moving rapidly up the national agenda, fueled in part by a gag order the cabinet slapped on the board preventing it from defending its marketing monopoly. As well, the opposition has alleged the Tories are tampering in the election of its directors by striking 16,000 farmers from the voter list.
However, Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl continued to refuse to commit to a plebiscite before moving ahead on their campaign promise. "The government will do what farmers have always wanted, which is to have a range of marketing choices, including the wheat board," Harper said.
"We are never going to be afraid to consult western farmers because the last time we did it, like so many times when we had done it in this country, they did not return a single Liberal MP, and they never will."
Strahl said Easter's motion was "ridiculous" and shot back at Bloc agriculture critic Andre Bellavance's defence of the wheat board by painting him as a hypocrite.
"When is the honourable member for the Bloc going to bring in the motion to expand the wheat board to make sure that it covers Quebec? He will not do that. Do you know why?" Strahl asked. "It is because he does not want the wheat board. He does not want the wheat board to affect his business in his province."
Saturday, October 21, 2006
Hansard Speaks....
This week the questions about the Wheat Board are piling up. MP's from all over Canada are hearing from their constituents. Of course we have the usual players ..... important defenders all. I am concerned though , my MP has NOT spoken. You can have a good long look, there are 7 pages at least and many for this week. Where is your MP?-cg
A juicy sampling :
House of Commons Debates
OFFICIAL REPORT (HANSARD)
Monday, October 16, 2006
(1925)
[Translation]
Hon. Robert Thibault (West Nova, Lib.):
Mr. Speaker, my topic of discussion today is supply management.
On June 7, I questioned the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food with a view to ascertaining how he planned to protect the supply management system in Canada.
[English]
Last week, like colleagues, I was in my riding and had a chance to speak to a lot of people, in particular to poultry and dairy farmers who are concerned about supply management and how we will protect them going forward in the future. One of the interesting questions they asked me was about how we saw the government's position on the Wheat Board and how the government was reacting to the Wheat Board. This is very interesting. This is the barometer that the Atlantic supply management people are watching, because it shows them how the federal government is going to--if it will--protect supply management.
Dairy farmers, chicken farmers and egg producers in Atlantic Canada do not want to tell western wheat producers how they should market their wheat and whether they should have a single desk or multi-desk system. That is not their intention. What they are concerned about is how the government is dealing with the western wheat producers.
They want to know if the government is listening to the producers or if it is starting with the preconceived idea of what it is going to do. These farmers see this as their barometer of how supply management will be dealt with. They remember the terms of the leader of the Conservative Party in 1998, the current Prime Minister, the terms denouncing the supply management model as a “government sponsored, price fixing cartel”.
What these farmers would like to know with respect to the Wheat Board is whether the Prime Minister is going to let each farmer vote. Is he going to follow the laws of our country and give a free vote to each farmer, not weighted in accordance with protection but everybody with a permit book having one vote in a democratic system? We know there is 73% support for the Wheat Board across the western prairies. Is the Prime Minister going to test that?
*********************************************
To see all the recent and not so recent debates and comments, check out the following LINK:
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A juicy sampling :
House of Commons Debates
OFFICIAL REPORT (HANSARD)
Monday, October 16, 2006
(1925)
[Translation]
Hon. Robert Thibault (West Nova, Lib.):
Mr. Speaker, my topic of discussion today is supply management.
On June 7, I questioned the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food with a view to ascertaining how he planned to protect the supply management system in Canada.
[English]
Last week, like colleagues, I was in my riding and had a chance to speak to a lot of people, in particular to poultry and dairy farmers who are concerned about supply management and how we will protect them going forward in the future. One of the interesting questions they asked me was about how we saw the government's position on the Wheat Board and how the government was reacting to the Wheat Board. This is very interesting. This is the barometer that the Atlantic supply management people are watching, because it shows them how the federal government is going to--if it will--protect supply management.
Dairy farmers, chicken farmers and egg producers in Atlantic Canada do not want to tell western wheat producers how they should market their wheat and whether they should have a single desk or multi-desk system. That is not their intention. What they are concerned about is how the government is dealing with the western wheat producers.
They want to know if the government is listening to the producers or if it is starting with the preconceived idea of what it is going to do. These farmers see this as their barometer of how supply management will be dealt with. They remember the terms of the leader of the Conservative Party in 1998, the current Prime Minister, the terms denouncing the supply management model as a “government sponsored, price fixing cartel”.
What these farmers would like to know with respect to the Wheat Board is whether the Prime Minister is going to let each farmer vote. Is he going to follow the laws of our country and give a free vote to each farmer, not weighted in accordance with protection but everybody with a permit book having one vote in a democratic system? We know there is 73% support for the Wheat Board across the western prairies. Is the Prime Minister going to test that?
*********************************************
To see all the recent and not so recent debates and comments, check out the following LINK:
Hansard Search Results
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
The Government Muzzles Democracy
The latest move by this government is mind boggling. They claim it is just to clean up voters lists.... in your dreams! The Ministers' comments are full of inconsistencies. Read all about it in the following Globe & Mail Article as well as the latest comments surrounding this issues from Ms. Holm.-cg
Farmers removed from voting list
BILL CURRY 18/10/06 Globe and Mail
OTTAWA -- The Conservative government has removed 16,000 farmers from the Canadian Wheat Board voters list, fuelling accusations that the Tories are interfering with this fall's election.
The upcoming elections will have a significant impact on whether the Tories can deliver on a campaign pledge to end the Wheat Board's monopoly over wheat sales. Currently all wheat farmers must sell their crop to the board, which then sells it on their behalf.
The decision on voters comes on the heels of a government order described by the board chair and opposition as a "gag" on current board members.
The government issued an Order in Council last week that forbids the board from spending money to advocate "the retention of its monopoly powers."
In an interview, board chairman Ken Ritter expressed concern that the government has changed the voter list in the middle of the Sept. 7-Dec. 1 election campaign, but said the board neither supports nor opposes the change.
The advocacy ban, however, is "not the Canadian way of doing things," he said.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper defended the decisions in the House of Commons.
"The directors of the Wheat Board have the ability to express any opinion they want," Mr. Harper insisted. "They are engaged right now in an electoral process and the Wheat Board has an absolute responsibility to respect the opinions of all western farmers, not just those who agree with it."
Supporters of the change to the board say it will allow farmers to shop for better prices. Critics say the current process works well and won't survive in an open market.
Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl said the voters list has been cleaned up to remove farmers who haven't used the board for the past two years. Those 16,000 farmers can still apply for a ballot if they have been growing wheat, he said.
"This is I think a pretty straightforward thing. Most farmers would say and most Canadians would say if you're going to have farmer elections to a Wheat Board, you don't have the potato farmers voting in it. And you don't have non-producers. You have people who are actually producing grain," Mr. Strahl said.
************************************************
Sender: Wendy Holm, P.Ag. holm@farmertofarmer.ca
Unprecedented moves this week by the Harper government to change the rules in the middle of the current election process for three CWB directors - dictating which farmers are eligible to vote and disqualifying 36 percent of producers from automatically receiving a ballot - may be tolerated in a tin pot dictatorship. It is not acceptable in Canada.
The below are now posted on my CWB web-page:
http://www.theholmteam.ca/CWB.html
1. Oct 17th response by CWB Director Art Macklin, DeBolt, Alberta to Harper government's interference in CWB election process.
2. Oct 12th article appearing in the Winnipeg Free Press : Not-so-benign dictator attacks wheat board.
to view, CLICK HERE AND FOLLOW THE LINKS
HERE IS HOW YOU CAN HELP:
1. Send an email to your MP** telling him that the Harper Government's denial of the democratic rights of Western Canada's grain farmers is unacceptable and must be challenged in the House. Refer them to the web site http://www.theholmteam.ca/CWB.html for background information.
2. Copy it to MP Chuck Strahl at Strahl.C@parl.gc.ca
3. Copy it also to Stephen Harper at Harper.S@parl.gc.ca
Take the time to send an email. Please. On behalf of Canada's farmers, Canada's communities and Canada's future.
Wendy Holm, P.Ag.
** Don't know your MP's email? Get it at http://webinfo.parl.gc.ca
Farmers removed from voting list
BILL CURRY 18/10/06 Globe and Mail
OTTAWA -- The Conservative government has removed 16,000 farmers from the Canadian Wheat Board voters list, fuelling accusations that the Tories are interfering with this fall's election.
The upcoming elections will have a significant impact on whether the Tories can deliver on a campaign pledge to end the Wheat Board's monopoly over wheat sales. Currently all wheat farmers must sell their crop to the board, which then sells it on their behalf.
The decision on voters comes on the heels of a government order described by the board chair and opposition as a "gag" on current board members.
The government issued an Order in Council last week that forbids the board from spending money to advocate "the retention of its monopoly powers."
In an interview, board chairman Ken Ritter expressed concern that the government has changed the voter list in the middle of the Sept. 7-Dec. 1 election campaign, but said the board neither supports nor opposes the change.
The advocacy ban, however, is "not the Canadian way of doing things," he said.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper defended the decisions in the House of Commons.
"The directors of the Wheat Board have the ability to express any opinion they want," Mr. Harper insisted. "They are engaged right now in an electoral process and the Wheat Board has an absolute responsibility to respect the opinions of all western farmers, not just those who agree with it."
Supporters of the change to the board say it will allow farmers to shop for better prices. Critics say the current process works well and won't survive in an open market.
Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl said the voters list has been cleaned up to remove farmers who haven't used the board for the past two years. Those 16,000 farmers can still apply for a ballot if they have been growing wheat, he said.
"This is I think a pretty straightforward thing. Most farmers would say and most Canadians would say if you're going to have farmer elections to a Wheat Board, you don't have the potato farmers voting in it. And you don't have non-producers. You have people who are actually producing grain," Mr. Strahl said.
************************************************
Sender: Wendy Holm, P.Ag. holm@farmertofarmer.ca
Unprecedented moves this week by the Harper government to change the rules in the middle of the current election process for three CWB directors - dictating which farmers are eligible to vote and disqualifying 36 percent of producers from automatically receiving a ballot - may be tolerated in a tin pot dictatorship. It is not acceptable in Canada.
The below are now posted on my CWB web-page:
http://www.theholmteam.ca/CWB.html
1. Oct 17th response by CWB Director Art Macklin, DeBolt, Alberta to Harper government's interference in CWB election process.
2. Oct 12th article appearing in the Winnipeg Free Press : Not-so-benign dictator attacks wheat board.
to view, CLICK HERE AND FOLLOW THE LINKS
HERE IS HOW YOU CAN HELP:
1. Send an email to your MP** telling him that the Harper Government's denial of the democratic rights of Western Canada's grain farmers is unacceptable and must be challenged in the House. Refer them to the web site http://www.theholmteam.ca/CWB.html for background information.
2. Copy it to MP Chuck Strahl at Strahl.C@parl.gc.ca
3. Copy it also to Stephen Harper at Harper.S@parl.gc.ca
Take the time to send an email. Please. On behalf of Canada's farmers, Canada's communities and Canada's future.
Wendy Holm, P.Ag.
** Don't know your MP's email? Get it at http://webinfo.parl.gc.ca
Strike and Counter Strike...
I haven't had time to research the latest on the Canadian Wheat Board and last week's house activity....BUT .... I did see an interview last week from the CEO of the CWB on ....Report on Business! As well, early this week there were questions in the house about the latest government move against the CWB and her farmers, on CPAC. CPAC also interviewed the Minister after question period and that was certainly pointed on the part of the Minister. It is evident how they intened to play this issue from his comments. Words like 'monopoly, choice, freedom,' are peppered throughout.
The Minister also makes a point about the CWB's job is to market grains and they had better "market". Of course his point is that they have no business doing anything else (even if their farmers want them too)!
I will provide the links as soon as I am able to get them. - cg
The Minister also makes a point about the CWB's job is to market grains and they had better "market". Of course his point is that they have no business doing anything else (even if their farmers want them too)!
I will provide the links as soon as I am able to get them. - cg
Friday, October 13, 2006
The CWB Battle Hits Mainstream
Well.....it was bound to happen. The fact that the Globe & Mail, no matter how biased, has actually printed an article about the latest move of the government against the Wheat Board, means MP's are going to have to deal with the political fallout. For your edification........see below. You can find the original article at :
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20061012.WHEATBOARD12/TPStory/National
and at : CWB Under Attack
Wheat Board ordered not to sow discontent
Cabinet directive bans organization from buying ads to argue against end to monopoly
Globe and Mail October 12, 2006
JOE FRIESEN
WINNIPEG -- The Conservative government has banned the Canadian Wheat Board from advocating its continued existence as the monopoly seller of Western Canadian wheat and barley, adding fuel to a growing political fire.
In a cabinet directive issued late last week, the government ordered the board not to directly or indirectly spend money on advertising, publishing or market research that would enable them to argue for the retention of the monopoly.
Ken Ritter, the Wheat Board's elected chair, yesterday called the move "unprecedented in law" and an unfair attack on freedom of speech. Opposition critics described it as "anti-democratic."
"I'd expect to see this in a tin-pot dictatorship, not in Canada," said federal Liberal agriculture critic Wayne Easter. "This is no longer a farm issue. What we're seeing is the fundamentals of a democracy being undermined."
The ban is the latest development in the battle over the Wheat Board's future. The Conservative government has promised to end the board's monopoly, but it's far from clear whether a majority of farmers supports that position and the government has refused to commit to a plebiscite on the issue.
Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl was in China yesterday but issued a statement through his office.
"The CWB reports to Parliament through me, and should not be attempting to undermine this government's policy objectives," Mr. Strahl said. "Farmers should be debating the future of the CWB, and I'm always interested in hearing from farmers. However, the CWB should use its resources and energy to market grain for farmers."
Adrian Measner, the Wheat Board's chief executive officer, said it's unfair to silence the organization at a crucial juncture in its history.
"It does create an unlevel playing field in the country, and I think that's the issue," Mr. Measner said. "We're being asked to be silent on our vision and our direction . . . while at the same time the government will be promoting their vision of opening up this marketplace."
He said the Wheat Board will respect the directive, but it will affect the organization's plans to communicate with farmers. Board members will still be able to speak their minds on the issue, but communications staff who discuss the possible impact of an end to the monopoly may risk repercussions.
The government made the order under a little-used section of the Canadian Wheat Board Act invoked only twice in recent memory, including once to forbid the sale of wheat to the Soviet Union after its invasion of Afghanistan. The Wheat Board is a quasi-governmental agency that is not funded by government but has billions of dollars in loans guaranteed by the federal treasury.
David Anderson, the parliamentary secretary to the Agriculture Minister, said farmers have told him they're opposed to the Wheat Board using their money to advocate a position they disagree with.
"We're serious about giving farmers a choice," Mr. Anderson said. "The directive is to have [the board] move to a neutral position on the issue and the farmers will have the discussion, organizations will have the discussion."
NDP MP Pat Martin accused the government of acting like fascists, and said they were abusing their power to silence their enemies.
"I think this is absolutely unprecedented in Canadian history," Mr. Martin said. "This is an issue of constitutional proportions. . . . To silence your opposition is so jack-booted, so heavy-handed. Canadians won't tolerate it."
A seven-member task force is to present its recommendations on how to create an open market for wheat and barley at some point in the next few weeks.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20061012.WHEATBOARD12/TPStory/National
and at : CWB Under Attack
Wheat Board ordered not to sow discontent
Cabinet directive bans organization from buying ads to argue against end to monopoly
Globe and Mail October 12, 2006
JOE FRIESEN
WINNIPEG -- The Conservative government has banned the Canadian Wheat Board from advocating its continued existence as the monopoly seller of Western Canadian wheat and barley, adding fuel to a growing political fire.
In a cabinet directive issued late last week, the government ordered the board not to directly or indirectly spend money on advertising, publishing or market research that would enable them to argue for the retention of the monopoly.
Ken Ritter, the Wheat Board's elected chair, yesterday called the move "unprecedented in law" and an unfair attack on freedom of speech. Opposition critics described it as "anti-democratic."
"I'd expect to see this in a tin-pot dictatorship, not in Canada," said federal Liberal agriculture critic Wayne Easter. "This is no longer a farm issue. What we're seeing is the fundamentals of a democracy being undermined."
The ban is the latest development in the battle over the Wheat Board's future. The Conservative government has promised to end the board's monopoly, but it's far from clear whether a majority of farmers supports that position and the government has refused to commit to a plebiscite on the issue.
Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl was in China yesterday but issued a statement through his office.
"The CWB reports to Parliament through me, and should not be attempting to undermine this government's policy objectives," Mr. Strahl said. "Farmers should be debating the future of the CWB, and I'm always interested in hearing from farmers. However, the CWB should use its resources and energy to market grain for farmers."
Adrian Measner, the Wheat Board's chief executive officer, said it's unfair to silence the organization at a crucial juncture in its history.
"It does create an unlevel playing field in the country, and I think that's the issue," Mr. Measner said. "We're being asked to be silent on our vision and our direction . . . while at the same time the government will be promoting their vision of opening up this marketplace."
He said the Wheat Board will respect the directive, but it will affect the organization's plans to communicate with farmers. Board members will still be able to speak their minds on the issue, but communications staff who discuss the possible impact of an end to the monopoly may risk repercussions.
The government made the order under a little-used section of the Canadian Wheat Board Act invoked only twice in recent memory, including once to forbid the sale of wheat to the Soviet Union after its invasion of Afghanistan. The Wheat Board is a quasi-governmental agency that is not funded by government but has billions of dollars in loans guaranteed by the federal treasury.
David Anderson, the parliamentary secretary to the Agriculture Minister, said farmers have told him they're opposed to the Wheat Board using their money to advocate a position they disagree with.
"We're serious about giving farmers a choice," Mr. Anderson said. "The directive is to have [the board] move to a neutral position on the issue and the farmers will have the discussion, organizations will have the discussion."
NDP MP Pat Martin accused the government of acting like fascists, and said they were abusing their power to silence their enemies.
"I think this is absolutely unprecedented in Canadian history," Mr. Martin said. "This is an issue of constitutional proportions. . . . To silence your opposition is so jack-booted, so heavy-handed. Canadians won't tolerate it."
A seven-member task force is to present its recommendations on how to create an open market for wheat and barley at some point in the next few weeks.
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