MLA Report: Experts in their field, Alberta farmers and ranchers should be championed

By Medicine Hat News Opinon on July 26, 2019.

It’s not a secret that there are ideological forces actively working against our agriculture sector. Just last week we saw The Weather Network go out of their way to take an adversarial approach, vilifying beef producers rather than doing what they are supposed to do, which is report the weather.

From that recent example, to the disastrous rollout and implementation of Bill 6, to the ongoing trade war with China, our former provincial and current federal governments have sat back as our agricultural producers suffered – they deserve better.

Despite all this adversity, whether it be through hard work, innovation, adaptation or a combination of the three, our farmers and ranchers have continued to supply nutritious food and food products, feeding the world.

With the release of the Agri-food Quarterly Update, we can see that there is great potential if we stay the course and continue to defend our hardworking farmers and ranchers. The numbers speak for themselves – Alberta’s agri-food exports rose 3.2% from 2017 to 2018, and set a new record at $11.6 billion. This is a testament to the adaptability of our farmers and the commitment they have put in, all the while dealing with lackadaisical governments and external pressures beyond their control.

Our government is continuing to fight for farmers and ranchers. We recognize that it is incumbent upon us to be ardent and vocal advocates; after all, our strong, resilient, western agricultural roots are the lifeblood of what make us who we are.

My colleague Devin Dreeshen, minister of agriculture and forestry, will join me on July 27 as we talk to farmers and ranchers about our planned repeal of Bill 6 and the roll-out of new legislation. We believe that it is best to consult first, and legislate second. We need, and value, your input as stakeholders, neighbours and experts in your own field (pun intended).

The consultations take place on July 27 at the Heritage Inn (Brooks) from 10 a.m. to noon and at the Irvine Community Sportsplex from 6-8 p.m.