Grain Growers of Canada is encouraging producers to be engaged
Canadians will elect their next federal government on April 28.
Prime Minister Mark Carney asked Governor General Mary Simon to dissolve Parliament on Sunday to officially mark the beginning of the campaign trail.
“There is so much more to do to secure Canada, to invest in Canada, to build Canada, to unite Canada,” he said on March 23. “That’s why I’m asking for a strong positive mandate from my fellow Canadians.”
At least one national ag organization is encouraging members to be engaged in this election.
Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) launched the Vote for Grain campaign to help farmers send letters to candidates to let them know what grain farmers need from a new government.
The pre-written letter highlights the challenges of trade uncertainty with the U.S. and China and calls for the next government to permanently cut the carbon tax for on-farm activities.
“This is a critical time for grain farmers as we are being hit from all sides,” Tara Sawyer, Chair of GGC, said in a statement. “Trade uncertainty causing a fall in commodity prices, rising input costs, and increasing government taxation and regulation are putting intense pressure on farmers. This election—and the decisions made in the years to come—will determine the future of Canadian grain farming. Political parties need to understand what’s at stake and commit to supporting our sector.”
The Canadian Federation of Agriculture is working to question ag candidates as well.
A spokesperson for the organization confirmed it is planning to host a national ag leaders debate, like it did in 2019 and 2021.
Farms.com is also working to receive answers from political parties about support for Canadian ag.
Farms.com recently sent a short questionnaire to the Liberals, Conservatives, NDP and Bloc Quebecois with questions related to supply management and labour challenges, for example.
In addition, once the main political parties release their platforms, Farms.com will go through them to highlight promises for Canadian farmers and rural communities.