BANFF, Alta. – A resolution to have Ralph Goodale fired as federal agriculture minister shows the displeasure the Western Barley Growers Association feels with a bill to reform the Canadian Wheat Board.
“I can’t think of a minister who has done more to divide farmers,” said Wayne Kriz of Rimbey, Alta.
During the barley growers’ annual convention here, another resolution called for continued pressure to amend Bill C-72 so prairie farmers can obtain an open and flexible marketing system.
Ted Cawkwell said farmers want a dual market for barley, not this legislation or an elected board of directors.
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“We’ll get a dual market come hell or high water,” the Nut Mountain, Alta. farmer said.
Calgary lawyer Keith Groves said there are a number of concerns with the legislation as it stands.
“If Bill C-72 passes in its current state this will be the last meeting for this group,” said Groves.
Groups like the barley growers association will be reduced to a social club, he said.
Groves is one of the attorneys handling the Charter of Rights challenge to the wheat board. No decision has been made yet by the judge.
In his interpretation of the act, Groves said it will be difficult to appoint farmer representatives to the board.
Retaliation feared
He also warned that because of liability protection for board members, most will be reluctant to go against the grain for fear of later retaliation. A board member’s first loyalty is to the corporation and shareholders, not their personal interests, he said.
Further, he feels this act puts a lid on any future possibility for a dual market in Canada.
Howard Migie of Agriculture Canada, speaking at the convention, said once the reformed crown corporation is actually running, regulations on its operations will be written to fit with real needs.
