The Canadian Federation of Agriculture is calling on the Federal Government to act now to help farmers, ranchers and the ag sector in general deal with the impact of COVID-19.

President Mary Robinson sounded the alarm yesterday about the ongoing labour shortage and market volatility.

“Difficult decisions are being made right now about whether to plant a crop or leave fields unplanted or plant crops that require less labour and costly inputs.”

She says farmers are dealing with significantly increased costs associated with purchasing the necessary PPE for their workers.

Robinson is calling on Ottawa to create an emergency fund to help producers.

“CFA and our members are asking the government to create an emergency fund or financial backstop so farmers in need can access funds to help them overcome mounting costs. Canadian farmers need to hear a clear commitment from government to instill in them, the necessary confidence for the 2020 planting season.”