The Canadian Federation of Agriculture celebrates its 75th anniversary this week, and its leaders are in Ottawa doing what they do – lobbying politicians.They are fanning out across Parliament Hill lobbying for changes to farm support programs, more public investment in research and a rail costing review.They are holding a board meeting where safety nets, Product of Canada labelling and research will on the agenda.And they are taking time out tomorrow for a celebratory banquet that will feature former CFA leaders and agriculture ministers with which they have worked.Ron Bonnett, the organization’s 12th president, told a news conference today that it is not always easy trying to find a farmer consensus to present to government. “That’s why it is astounding that we are celebrating 75 years.”He said a recent era of co-operation on common issues between the CFA and other organizations such as the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association and Grain Growers of Canada makes the farm lobby strong in Canada, despite the availability of many farm organization and commodity voices to which governments can listen.”I think right now we have a stronger lobby than we had before,” Bonnett said.He also said a key to the federation’s long success is that it stands above politics.”We have managed to stay non-partisan in what we do,” he said. “We talk to everyone.”He said the federation has also tried to keep credibility with farmers by trying to reflect their thinking.”It is not the government agenda we are following,” Bonnett said. “It is the agenda of farmers.”
CFA marks 75th anniversary
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