Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak on the crisis currently unfolding in Canada's agricultural industries.
1998 has been a difficult fiscal year for our primary producers. Commodity prices have plummeted and financial forecasts call for ominous storm clouds to form on the horizon.
This nation was founded upon the institution of the family farm. Sadly, it is that very symbol which now faces almost certain disaster if we fail to intercede. Over the course of the last several weeks my colleagues and I have examined this matter with numerous interested parties. I recall one farmer who summarized this debate effectively when he said “I work on my farm to feed my country but I must work off my farm to feed my family”. It is a very sad reality.
Unfortunately, the choices available are limited. Farmers must either get out of the business now or face the very real prospect of future financial ruin.
I cannot stress enough the urgency of this matter. I would encourage all of my colleagues to support the efforts of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food in this matter. If we fail to act we run the risk of closing the proverbial gate long after the cattle have run off.