Leaders of farm organizations say they remain at arm’s length from government, despite public endorsements
When the Alberta Wheat Commission releases public statements supporting the federal government, it does so because the government policy or program serves the needs of Alberta farmers, says the group’s chair.
“If we had a press release … praising the announcement of funding or a bill being passed, it’s a support that we have because it falls in line with one of our strategic priorities,” said Kent Erickson, who farms near Irma, Alta.
The wheat commission and other producer-governed farm organizations in Canada often issue public statements that echo a similar release from the federal government when promoting government policy or achievement as good for farmers.
Read Also
Farming Smarter receives financial boost from Alberta government for potato research
Farming Smarter near Lethbridge got a boost to its research equipment, thanks to the Alberta government’s increase in funding for research associations.
Erickson said the wheat commission issues its own releases to connect with its farmer members.
“Maybe sometimes producers don’t necessarily see the announcement from the government, but they might see the announcement from the producer group,” he said.
“That (news release) will hopefully get some feedback. If it’s something that isn’t in favour in Alberta … that might spark some people to give us a call and ask us some questions.”
Bryan Rogers, executive director of Grain Growers of Canada, said the organization issued a statement in late February noting the royal assent of Bill C-18 because it supports the policy changes in the Agricultural Growth Act.
“GGC’s stated mission is to work collaboratively with government to pursue a policy environment that maximizes global competitiveness of Canadian farmers,” Rogers said in an email.
“We are pleased to lend our support to policies that help us achieve that goal and work closely with all governments for the best interests of grain producers.”
Erickson said an amiable relationship with the government is obviously more beneficial than a hostile one.
“When you have issues, sometimes you get further ahead by having friendly discussions rather than having confrontation,” he said.
“You want to have a good relationship with whoever the governing party is because they have the ability to move forward with your policies.”
Weldon Newton, a former Keystone Agricultural Producers president, said farm group leaders need to have constructive relationships with agriculture ministers and government representatives.
However, he said working with the government while representing the interests of farmers can be a “fine line” to walk.
“Publicly you’ve got to be measured in how you keep that (relationship) at arm’s length, so you can function on behalf of your members.”
Erickson said news releases praising the federal government do pose a perception risk, but Alberta farmers can contact the commission it they are concerned.
“If it comes across as applauding or cheerleading for the government, that’s a decision the reader or whoever reads our press release … perceives it,” he said.
“I would hope there would be a response to us, in emails and letters, that we’re not in line with what our strategic plan is and our priorities are and what the producers’ priorities are.”
Tom Steve, general manager of the wheat commission, said he hasn’t heard negative feedback regarding the supportive news releases.
“We haven’t. We do regional meetings across Alberta … and our members are welcome to come and express their opinions,” he said.
“If there was a major concern we could certainly take that seriously.”
Steve said commission leaders prefer to talk directly to government officials if they are frustrated with government policies.
“(As for) communication tactics, do you lead with a press release or do you try and establish contact and actually meet with politicians and urge them to take action?”
Erickson said the commission doesn’t solely focus on its relationship with the federal Conservative party.
Leaders of Alberta agricultural commodity groups travelled to Ottawa this winter to meet with government and opposition representatives.
“We met with all the parties,” he said.
“So we are very engaged (with) all the parties…. You never know who (will be) in power, and who’s going to be the governing body.”
robert.arnason@producer.com
