One of the problems I guess I have relates to the second question I'm going to ask you anyway. Everybody at this committee knows that when you contract with a processor for your production, you feel somewhat obligated to that processor, because if you lose that contract you may not be producing next year. It has happened, Mr. Chair, in Prince Edward Island, producers have told me that the two major processors in P.E.I. also sell crop protectants and fertilizer. Fertilizer has been brought in from Russia by container and other countries by container much cheaper. In fact a neighbour of mine saved $60,000 on 400 acres of potatoes by bringing the fertilizer in himself.
However, the big boys, the processors, decided they weren't going to take a loss on the fertilizer they had brought in at December prices, so they very clearly told some producers, “Look, if you didn't buy your fertilizer for your grain, you'll not get a potato contract.” I know the potato board is in a difficult position to even say anything on that. Producers are fearful that if they say anything or challenge anybody, they'll lose their contract.
This is a serious issue, Mr. Chair. I see you're shaking your head and I know you understand that.
I raise that, Brenda, because what I'm saying is true, from what you've heard, correct?