Mr. Speaker, the Government of Canada is very concerned about the farm financial situation and realizes the sense of urgency and importance.
The hon. member is aware that the farm income situation was the subject of a special meeting the minister convened with provincial ministers of agriculture and farm leaders on November 4.
Since then the minister has had ongoing discussions with his colleagues in the government, in industry and provincial counterparts about the problems Canadian producers are facing. Work will continue with all stakeholders to put in place solutions to this situation.
We will act as quickly as possible but we will not act rashly, irresponsibly or prematurely. We will develop the necessary tools to improve the effectiveness of our safety net system as quickly as possible. However, all of us agree that inequitable, ineffective and unaffordable ad hoc measures are not the answer.
We will act quickly but we will also take the time necessary to ensure the actions taken are the best ones for farmers and for all Canadians.