I wouldn't want to speak for the government in terms of the strategic choices it will have to make. That being said, it is certain that offering support to hog producers is essential. They are in a crisis, just as we are. However, if we don't maintain the production base of the processing plants, it won't do much.
We have made a strategic choice to reposition ourselves. We have to think about the producers, both in Ontario and in Quebec — I'm going to preach a little more for Quebec, because it's my region. I think it's important. How can we support them in the short term? We've negotiated a marketing agreement with the breeders in Quebec, where we've agreed to extend the operating time to allow for a better transition. However, it's far from perfect. Support is needed. Producers are going to face huge costs because the closure date will not be properly aligned with the transition plan that producers in Quebec have agreed to.
They will need support until the plan is fully implemented, whether it is for transportation or farm income, which has already been alluded to. The cost of grain is exorbitant and interest rates have skyrocketed. We are short of cash, especially since producers in Quebec have agreed to support Quebec processors by accepting a price cut to help them get back on track. It's not just Olymel that needs support, but really the whole industry.