Farm show hosts post-budget agriculture discussion
REGINA — Farmers aren’t always too happy with the business risk management programs available to them, but Saskatchewan’s deputy minister of agriculture said they definitely use them.
Bill Greuel told a post-budget presentation at Canada’s Farm Show the three main programs are fully funded.
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“The programs, you will often hear a bit back and forth about whether or not they’re working for producers,” he said. “Our business risk management programs through AgriInvest and AgriStability and AgriInsurance paid out benefits of $8.1 billion over the last five years to producers.”
A significant portion of went to the 25 rural municipalities in the southwest hardest hit by drought, he said.
The province’s contribution to the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership programs is $89.4 million each year.
Greuel noted this year’s budget includes $37 million for research, including funding 15 scientists and the Strategic Research Initiative focusing currently on herbicide resistance.
It funds the new Saskatchewan Animal Enforcement Agency, which takes over from Animal Protection Services of Saskatchewan April 1.
And, it includes funding for mental health in the agricultural sector. The province is investing $200,000 to expand mental health services and merge the provincial Farm Stress Line with the National Farmer Crisis Line as of April 1. This will offer 24/7 confidential support at no cost, and includes follow-up counselling through SaskAg Matters.
Source: producer.com