Farmer delegates from across Manitoba brought forward their concerns at the Keystone Agricultural Producers annual meeting, which ended with the passing of 18 resolutions reflecting these concerns.
Delegates called on KAP to address the labour shortages in agriculture – with one resolution directing KAP to work for the establishment of a designated agricultural trade offered at an accredited post-secondary institution, and another directing KAP to work with educational providers to develop a farm equipment operator course to train new entrants into the workplace.
“Both of these resolutions reflect the need for training that will educate prospective workers in both farming and safety,” said KAP president Dan Mazier. “Farming is one of the most dangerous occupations, and while we are desperate for workers, we must ensure they are properly trained.”
Delegates also called on KAP to lobby the province to ensure rural residents and communities receive timely emergency response services, including the development of an effective strategy for farmers working in remote area with no cell coverage.
Another resolution, endorsed by young farmers from the University of Manitoba’s agricultural diploma program, called on support for young farmers to purchase land. It would come in the form of a levy on farmland bought as investment and not being farmed for three years. The levy would then go to expand the Manitoba Agricultural Service Corporation’s young farmer rebate program.
Delegates also called on KAP to address climate change by encouraging governments, universities, private industry and farmers to develop experimental farms and best management practices that increase the sequestration of carbon into the soil.
Guests at the meeting included provincial Agriculture Minister Ralph Eichler and federal Natural Resources Minister Jim Carr.
Dan Mazier, a grains and oilseed producer from Justice, was acclaimed for a fourth term as KAP president. Bill Campbell, a cattle producer from Minto, and Jill Verwey, who runs a mixed operation near Portage la Prairie, were acclaimed as vice-presidents.
