Dairy farmers recognize that some sectors are highly dependent on the export market, but Canadian trade policy must also ensure that the needs of all sectors are balanced.
A truly Canadian model must ensure the success and long-term viability of all sectors, without pitting some sectors against others.
The compensation for dairy farmers and the investments in dairy processing announced in the 2022 fall economic statement will help our sector make the transition that will be required as these agreements are implemented.
Granting repeated market access concessions, followed each time by compensation, is not a model that will support the long-term success of our industry, nor would it work in any other sector of the Canadian economy.
Canada's dairy, poultry and egg producers have paid their dues.
Bill C‑282 would protect the sustainability and viability of Canadian farms under supply management by preventing the granting of further market access concessions under current or future trade agreements.
Parliamentarians sent a very strong signal in the second reading vote. They can send an even stronger message by quickly passing the bill and putting dairy protection into law.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.