QUESTION PERIOD — Agriculture and Agri-Food
Support for Agricultural Sector
February 14, 2023
My question is for the Government Representative in the Senate.
Senator Gold, I am sure you’re well aware that tomorrow is Canada’s Agriculture Day. Tomorrow — and I hope every day — farmers, producers and all members of the agriculture and processing sectors are being celebrated for their immeasurable contributions to this country. They remain an essential part of every Canadian’s life, and continued support for their tireless efforts remains paramount to the success of the nation.
However, while the agricultural industry has had many successes, they continue to face obstacles, barriers and difficulties. Whether it’s climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic, labour shortages or regulatory issues, all members of this sector repeatedly rise to the challenge in the face of many issues. Their determination, skill and dedication continue to be appreciated by Canadians from coast to coast to coast.
Senator Gold, can you please tell us what the Canadian government is currently doing to help solve these ongoing challenges to the sector, namely, processing capacity, food security, soil health and climate change, just to name a few?
Ahead of your response, I want to wish you and my colleagues here in the chamber and all Canadians a very happy Agriculture Day tomorrow.
Thank you, colleague, for highlighting the fifth Canada’s Agriculture Day. It’s a day to thank our farmers and our producers for what they do, to celebrate their accomplishments and to reflect as well on where we’re going next.
You quite correctly, senator, made reference to the many challenges that the agricultural sector faces today. The government is committed to helping farmers face and meet those challenges. On soil health, for example, Agriculture and Agri‑Food Canada and its laboratories have a long history of developing foundational science as well as innovative practices and technologies. They’re committed to transferring this knowledge to producers.
On climate change, the government has invested over $1.5 billion in the last two years to support producers in adopting good practices, in acquiring clean technologies and in research and development to adapt to climate change while continuing to grow the sector.
Finally, the government has successfully negotiated the sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership with our provincial and territorial partners. As of April 2023, this agreement will bring $3.5 billion in funding over five years for Canadian agriculture to help build a prosperous and sustainable sector.
Thank you, Senator Black, for your tireless effort on this file. May I join you in wishing us all a happy Agriculture Day.
