Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask for an emergency debate as set out in sections three and four of Standing Order 52.
The current crisis facing Canadian farmers deals with the lack of immediate emergency funding they require to enable spring planting. With no commitment forthcoming from the government, they are unable to get loan guarantees to purchase the necessary seeds to get their crops into the ground and thus remain viable. They simply cannot wait until the budgetary process is complete as this could take months.
We must take this matter before the House to find a way to be successful in receiving a bankable commitment from the government to help the farmers now.
Mr. Speaker, it is time for action. Many farmers are dangerously close to bankruptcy. The disappearance of our farms would have a disastrous effect on rural communities, especially on small regional businesses.
On behalf of all farmers, I ask that an emergency debate be held on the crisis currently facing the Canadian agricultural sector.