Mr. Speaker, I wish to stress the openness and the flexibility displayed by the federal government toward farm producers.
A few days ago, the government announced it would be doubling the amount of interest-free loans under the Spring Credit Advance Program. The maximum amount will go up from $20,000 to $50,000 for spring 2001.
This is a timely measure, since producers are adversely affected by the increase in the costs of fuel and fertilizer.
In the past, that program has proved very useful to farmers. It has allowed them to get funds in time for spring planting.
A number of income support measures are being put in place by our government. I urge it to continue to work with the agricultural industry to ensure long term stability in that sector.