I receive many letters, emails and calls from constituents on the importance of farming to Canada and I am well aware of the concerns surrounding the industry.  I believe that the Conservative Government has heard these concerns and responded.  As I’m sure readers are aware, we have committed to revamping the programs – like CAIS – which were not working, and replacing them with functional, more efficient systems. 

The new Agriculture initiative, Growing Forward, is a commitment from Canada’s federal, provincial, and territorial governments that will better position our agriculture industry for success.  Approved in March 2009, Growing Forward promises to invest $1.3 billion over 5 years, 60/40 cost shared, in stable, bankable programs and key investments in innovation and marketing. This commitment is in addition to the Growing Forward Business Management Suite: AgriInvest, AgriInsurance, AgriStability and AgriRecovery.

These programs are a result of government listening to Canadians.  Approximately 3,000 stakeholders from across the country participated in joint consultations both in-person and over the internet, with four Alberta sessions engaging over 300 participants.  Following the initial consultations Alberta held two more in 2007 and two workshops a year later to refine program details. As a result of this stakeholder feedback 23 new Growing Forward programs were introduced in Alberta.  These programs have been developed and are administered by the Government of Alberta and are organized into 12 areas:

Bio-Security - Programs to prevent disease from entering Alberta’s agriculture industry.   

Business Management Skills and Tools - Educational programs for agri-business managers to enhance competitiveness.

Energy Efficiency - Programs for Alberta agri-businesses to realize cost savings through energy efficient technology.

Entrepreneur Development - Networking opportunities, education programs and tools for those who are new to the Alberta agriculture industry. (Many of the Growing Forward programs are available for new entrant participation.)

Food Safety - Certification programs to ensure the safety of Canadian food products, building consumer confidence.

Leadership - Educational programs for Alberta leaders and managers to take their business to new levels.

Lean Manufacturing and Automation - Programs to implement technology and systems enabling Alberta producers and processors to increase efficiency and reduce costs.

Livestock Welfare - Programs to implement processes and technologies that ensure the humane handling of Alberta livestock.

Product and Market Development - Introducing value chain information systems to make Alberta food products more unique, competitive and profitable.

Stewardship Plans - Programs and resources to protect Alberta’s food chain and position Alberta agri-business as a world leader in environmental responsibility.

Traceability - Supply chain traceability and technologies that ensure Canada’s leadership in animal health and food safety.

Water Management - Support for programs and projects that enhance Alberta agri-business’ long term water supply.

I am proud that our government has listened to Canadians and of how it is working with the Government of Alberta to bring effective, forward looking programs to the hardworking farmers and agri-business people who are so important to the success of our country.  I want to make sure farmers in my riding are aware of these programs and because many are now accepting applications and registration is required to use these programs I would like to encourage any who are interested to visit Alberta’s Growing Forward website http://www.growingforward.alberta.ca or call 310-FARM (3276) as soon as possible. 

Leon Benoit MP