The Government of Canada is extending its support for hog farmers who have downsized their herds to cope with tough economic times. Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz today announced that the time period covered by the Cull Breeding Swine Program has been extended, which will provide more assistance to farmers.
“This Government continues to work with Canadian pork producers to make sure they can weather this global economic storm,” said Minister Ritz. “Some pork producers made tough business decisions to reduce their herds before this program started. We’re changing the program to make sure those producers get the support they deserve.”
“This Government will always stand up for Canadian pork producers, especially when they are going through difficult times,” said the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of National Revenue and Minister of State (Agriculture). “When producers ask us to improve programs, we will continue to work with them to make the changes they need.”
The $50 million Cull Breeding Swine Program was announced in February 2008, with the objective of reducing the national breeding herd size by up to 10 per cent.
Key components of the program are as follows:
• Producers are eligible to receive a per head payment for each animal slaughtered, as well as reimbursement for slaughter and disposal costs.
• Producers must agree to empty at least one barn, and not to restock for a three year period.
• Animals must be slaughtered in a humane manner and disposed of in compliance with jurisdictional environmental requirements.
Originally, claims for culled breeding swine were covered between November 1, 2007 and November 30, 2008. The initial date has now been changed to include breeding swine culled between August 1, 2007 and October 31st, 2007. Producers have until June 30 to make claims for breeding swine culled during this period. The program is delivered by the Canadian Pork Council.
For further information, producers can call 1-877-655-2567.
