Photo from the Grain Growers of Canada Facebook page.

By Curtis Galbraith

Agriculture

Grain Growers of Canada welcoming some items in federal budget, but waiting on more details

Apr 22, 2021 | 6:39 PM

GRANDE PRAIRIE, Alta. – Grain Growers of Canada is welcoming some of the things included in the federal budget, but the organization’s Chair says they are still awaiting more details.

Valhalla farmer Andre Harpe says that includes $100 million for possible rebates for some of the carbon tax charged on fuel used in things like grain dryers.

“We’re going to be looking into it and trying to find out those details as soon as possible. Right now, we just don’t have the details. In the meantime, we are still going to continue working for a full exemption from the carbon tax on natural gas for grain dryers.”

There is also money available to help buy more energy-efficient grain. Harpe says there are more efficient systems available, but right now farmers have no choice but to use natural gas.

He adds Grain Growers is still advocating for the passage of Bill C-26, which would exempt farm-use natural gas and propane from the carbon tax.

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Harpe says the organization is also welcoming a new National Trade Corridors Fund, something he says is very important for the Peace Country.

“The trade corridor from here would be going out west to Prince Rupert. It is so important (and) we need something like that because it gives us more access to ports, so I think it’s hugely important and I’m glad to see the federal government is actually finally recognizing it and (is) willing to put some money towards it.”

Harpe says there are also few details available on this idea.

He adds one thing they were hoping to see that is not in the budget was more money for the Pest Management Regulatory Agency.

“As new chemicals or new formulations come on stream, they can go through the process in a reasonable manner, and it doesn’t take too long to do.”

Harpe says the biggest thing is that the federal government is putting money towards agriculture in this budget, and we have to wait for the details to come out.