Farmers who still have to repay money to the Canadian Agricultural Income Stabilization Program (CAIS) are getting a break from the federal government.
Agriculture minister Gerry Ritz announced last week the government will defer collection of interest until Dec. 31, 2008.
The new policy will benefit about 8,200 farmers who still have to repay CAIS funds.
Ritz said it will be of particular help to cattle and hog producers who are experiencing serious financial difficulties.
The announcement applies in provinces where the federal government delivers the CAIS program, including Saskatchewan, Manitoba and British Columbia. Interest collection will also be deferred in Alberta, where the provincial government delivers CAIS.
