Border Closure, Low Commodity Prices and High Input Costs

Ottawa-Ed Komarnicki, MP for Souris-Moose Mountain, criticized the government for not ensuring that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) set out the facts and evidence used to substantiate on a scientific basis that it was safe to reopen the border. This failure was the basis used by the Montana Judge to grant the injunction.

In adjournment proceedings in the House of Commons, Komarnicki stated, “The government was unprepared when the U.S. cattle lobby group, R-Calf made its application for an injunction.”

“When the matter was before the Montana judge, our government failed to have materials before the court with lawyers present to advance Canada’s position. Canada was not represented at a very critical time when we had millions of dollars in trade being affected,” said Komarnicki.

The politics now need to change from being directed at the American President to open the border to using all means possible to expedite trial and appellate proceedings to ensure decisions take place quickly and are not protracted or prolonged.

Komarnicki stated, “Since the government was not on its toes to make a proper case before the USDA and the Montana Judge, they owe it to the farmers to put some immediate and continuing cash in their hands while the legal process takes its course.”

“Also,” said Komarnicki, “the grain and oilseed sectors are facing spring seeding with a great deal of uncertainty. I have been advocating an immediate cash acreage payment.”

The most recent announcement for income support for ranchers and other producers, as well as the grain and oilseed sectors is a welcome start in that direction. The grain and oilseed sectors had faced a devastating frost last August, low commodity prices and rising input costs, so any direct assistance would be appreciated.

“The big question,” said Komarnicki,” will be the specific details setting out access to the aid and how it will be administered.”