So by becoming a full partner in flexible, regional-focused programs like Ontario's RMP and Quebec's ASRA, we can help the federal government save money it currently spends on ad hoc emergency aid—about $1 billion a year. Farmers across Canada continue to be extremely frustrated by the Growing Forward suite of programs, Ottawa's one-size-fits-all program, and specifically the AgriStability program.
At our last four meetings of federal and provincial agriculture ministers, the minister agreed to review the federal farm programs, yet little if any progress has been made. It's clear that the system needs to be improved, and it's also clear that improvements will save everybody money.