Thank you very much, Madam Chair, and certainly thanks to every one of the witnesses who have appeared here today.
I know these are very difficult times for farmers and ranchers. My Conservative colleagues and I are certainly trying to make sure that you get the help you need so that our food supply chains remain as strong and vibrant as they were before. As a former cattleman, I know something about the challenges you face.
Today I'd like to start by addressing my questions to the Canadian Cattlemen's Association.
It was 40 days ago when the Liberal finance minister told Canadians that when it came to support for our critical oil and gas industry, we could expect action: “hours, potentially days, that we can ensure that there are credit facilities for especially the small- and medium-sized firms in that sector.” Well, the reason I mention this is that our critical agriculture industry is getting the same treatment from this government. Last week, we had the Minister of Agriculture before this committee, and incredibly she told us in no uncertain terms that it was too soon to announce any kind of new aid packages for the agriculture sector.
I understand that the Canadian Cattlemen's Association has also been meeting with the minister since the middle of March. Privately they have told you that they agree that the current BRM programs are insufficient to address the challenges that you face today. You suggested that what's needed are changes to the BRM, as well as a national set-aside program and enhancements to the advance payments program.
Can you tell this committee what the results will be if the government fails to immediately move forward on what you're suggesting today?