CALGARY, AB: The Wheat Growers Association is calling upon the Hon. Steven MacKinnon, Minster of Labour, to use all the tools available to government to ensure that there is no rail work stoppage. With harvest about to begin, rail is a vital link to the movement of grain, ensuring just in time delivery across the grain network from farm gate to port. There have been more than a dozen labour disruptions in the past 15 years.
“Canadian farmers need more than platitudes, we need prompt action by the federal government, rail and union officials. When factors beyond our control impact our industry, customers and food security, that is when government needs to take immediate action,” stated Daryl Fransoo, SK Director.
The Canadian Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) has ruled that a work stoppage would not place Canada’s food security in “serious danger”. In fact, a rail stoppage during the height of the Canadian harvest will cause devastating harm to Canada’s food security both domestically and internationally. Rail strikes cost farmers market share and export markets are already looking for alternate sources of grain.
“At a minimum, the Minister needs to initiate a mediated settlement that forces all parties to the negotiating table until a settlement is reached. Too much is at stake for producers and all parts of the food supply chain to have a break down,” closed Fransoo.
About the Wheat Growers:
Founded in 1970, the Wheat Growers Association is a voluntary farmer-run advocacy organization dedicated to developing public policy solutions that strengthen the profitability and sustainability of farming, and the agricultural industry as a whole. For more information please visit: wheatgrowers.ca. Click here to see who is helping to advocate for grain farmers.
For more information please visit: wheatgrowers.ca. Click here to see who is helping to advocate for grain farmers.
For media requests please contact:
Dave Quist
1-587-224-7221
dquist@wheatgrowers.ca