Federal Minister comments on new Ag Policy Framework
By Jennifer Jackson
The development of the new Agricultural Policy Framework is well underway. Federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) agriculture ministers met in Ottawa on May 10 to discuss the planning of the new framework.
The minsters reviewed top agricultural priorities and ensured work on the policy is on track for an April 2018 launch.
Lawrence MacAulay, Canada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, co-chaired the meeting.
Farms.com recently had the opportunity to ask Minister MacAulay some questions regarding the new framework.
Farms.com (Farms): What are some of the main agricultural priorities to be addressed?
Minister Lawrence MacAulay (LM): In July 2016, ministers of agriculture from across the country agreed on the Calgary Statement, which outlines the key priorities for the next policy framework, including:
- International markets - The next agricultural framework will help farmers and food processors access and develop new markets, by providing resources to enhance the expertise and technical support they need to capitalize on market opportunities and sell their products abroad.
- Science and innovation - Science, research and innovation remain at the heart of the Canadian agriculture sector. Investments under the next agricultural framework will support industry-led projects in key areas, help industry adopt innovative practices and support small- and medium-sized businesses.
- Risk management - Business risk management (BRM) remains a key priority for the next agricultural framework. Ministers are committed to working with the sector to ensure programs are comprehensive, responsive and accessible. Effective risk management, mitigation and adaptation activities play a part in creating a strong, stable sector, which encourages investment in the Canadian agriculture supply-chain.
- Environmental sustainability - The next agricultural framework will enhance sustainable growth to protect the environment in a manner that will still allow for an increase in agriculture production, take action on climate change to mitigate agriculture greenhouse gas emissions and build sector capacity to adapt to climate change.
- Value-added and agri-food processing - The food processing sector is Canada’s second largest manufacturing industry, the largest manufacturing employer and a major buyer of Canadian primary agriculture production. The next policy framework will support the continued growth of the value-added agriculture and agri-food processing sector, including attracting new processing facilities across the country, while helping processors boost capacity and grow their businesses.
- Public trust - The next agricultural framework will have a focus on public trust, while ensuring that regulations are strong. This (focus) will include improved assurance systems, traceability and regulations to build a firm foundation for public trust in the sector.
Farms: What can producers expect in the new framework?
LM: We have heard from a wide range of Canadians to ensure future programs and services meet the needs of the sector. The next framework will build on the success of existing programs and tap the huge potential of Canada’s farmers and processors to innovate and compete around the world.
The Government of Canada is committed to developing the best package of programs and services possible to help the sector grow. We will ensure that there is a correct balance between existing and emerging priorities to meet the dynamic, changing needs of the sector.
Farms: As agriculture gains more recognition for its contributions to Canada’s economy, how will the new framework maintain the industry’s reputation?
LM: Budget 2017 recognizes that the agricultural sector is one of Canada’s top six industries that touches the lives of all Canadians and offers great potential for growth and job creation. Together with federal investments in science and innovation, trade, the environment and value-added industries, the next FPT agricultural framework will help us unleash the growth potential of the sector.
My provincial and territorial colleagues and I continue to work together to develop the next agricultural policy framework.