Another challenge is that it takes too long for the beginning farmers to qualify for support programs because they have to build up reference years. In 2007 the Ontario hog, beef, and horticultural program did not work well for beginning and expanding farmers. Our last-built farm, which started shipping pigs in 2004, did not qualify for anything else. At the same time, some deceased farmers did get a cheque, and even farmers who were out of business for a few years got money. It makes it worse for the beginning farmer, because in times like this you're losing money. Then some of your other farmers do get money, but we don't get it.
On December 3rd, 2009. See this statement in context.