Calgary, AB: The Western Canadian Wheat Growers are pleased that CN Rail and the Teamsters have come to a tentative agreement and that the grain can now move to market.
“Our global markets depend on the timely shipping of our products. It is imperative that we are able to meet our contractual obligations,” said Gunter Jochum, President.
The loss of two weeks of shipping time cannot be made up and it will take time to fill the backlog of cargo ships that are waiting in Vancouver. CN Rail needs to use all available rolling stock and personnel to maximize the movement of grain. Farmers do not receive payment for their crop until the shipment is complete. Bills need to be paid and it has already been a long harvest.
“While we’re grateful that the parties have come to an agreement, the Federal Government needs to take steps to ensure that grain farmers are not held ransom in the future. Rail service should be deemed an essential service” closed Cherilyn Jolly-Nagel, Saskatchewan Director.
About the Wheat Growers:
Founded in 1970, the Western Canadian 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.
For More Information Contact:
Dave Quist, Executive Director
587-224-7221
dquist@wheatgrowers.ca