Agriculture committee  There is also the business risk management component. In our opinion, this is a major pillar that will allow for a real implementation of support measures in the more difficult situations, whether it is a question of one time or recurring problems, so that our Canadian agricultural businesses are not put into precarious economic situations.

Agriculture committee  When you take a look at how the CAIS program, which you referred to, has been implemented, you will note the following: in Quebec, the producers that have been penalized the most are those that grow grain or who have mixed crops, as a gentleman mentioned earlier. Grain producers found themselves facing low prices.

Agriculture committee  I would say that that explains in part why we defend our supply management programs so passionately. To some extent, these programs fulfil this function. The situation is more difficult for other crops. I think that, in Canada, we're looking for food production independence. This is essential.

Agriculture committee  I would say that we are experiencing more or less the same situation that you described in Quebec. We work in a collegial manner with all of our groups and we are all part of specialized federations. You must understand that in Quebec, as far as marketing and income security are concerned, we have more or less two systems.

Agriculture committee  We are aware that these are income stabilization programs. Our farmers want to make as much as they can from the market. When you apply a single rate to all of the crops, you miss the mark. Some farms are in dire straits. A small amount of money will have very little impact and will not improve their financial situation.

Agriculture committee  This is a big country. There is considerable regional disparity from one region to the next. This disparity affects agriculture, since each area of the country is different. These differences can be quite marked, and the crops and needs are varied. We are asking the federal government to recognize these differences with flexible programs that, through a global intervention strategy, will help to sustain farm incomes and make them more secure.

Agriculture committee  Good afternoon, Mr. Chairman. Thank you for inviting us to appear before your committee. I will briefly explain the situation of the UPA, which represents all agricultural producers in Quebec. The Quebec Farm Producers Act recognizes all agricultural producers within a single structure.