Competitiveness of the Canadian Sheep Industry

Issue:

There is real potential for growth in the Canadian sheep industry. This is an industry that can expand production without negatively impacting any other livestock commodity. To do this though, the small ruminant industry needs the government to assist in dealing with key issues such as traceability, food safety, wildlife damage, animal health, market access and the long term sustainability of producers involved in animal based agriculture.

Click here  for an address to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food.

Food Safety

Issue:

Food safety is not just the responsibility of Canadian producers. If we are going to continue to deliver the safe, high quality food that Canadian consumers have come to expect, then a collaborative approach, which includes producers, processors, retailers, consumers and government is required. With such an approach, the costs of ensuring the supply of safe, high quality food is shared.

Click here  for an address to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Food Safety

Predation

Issue:

The lack of a coordinated national approach to predation is a major detriment to the growth of Canada's sheep industry and is a contributing factor to the ongoing attrition of Canada's sheep farmers.

Click here for a briefing note to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and the Minister of Natural Resources 

Scrapie

Issue: 

For the last six years, since the discovery of BSE in Canada, Canadian breeding sheep and goats have not been able to access the United States or Mexican markets. 

Click here for a briefing note to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.