REGINA — The Saskatchewan government has launched a full review of its farmland ownership laws.
Agriculture minister David Marit said the review will include both stakeholder and public consultations. It comes after an initial review by an appointed advisory committee.
That committee found no evidence of illegal land ownership, he said.
Read Also
United Nations warns of food crisis; others not convinced
SASKATOON — A leading U.S. grain market analyst does not put much stock in reports of a looming food crisis…
“However, they did point to potential opportunities to further strengthen the legislation and the regulatory framework. Based on their feedback, we will undertake an extensive review of ownership verification, penalty and enforcement tools, as well as reporting obligations and oversight of permanent residents,” he told a news conference.
The committee did not look at other parts of the act, such as foreclosure processes and home quarter protection, but the comprehensive review will.
He noted the last significant review was done 10 years ago.
Advisory committee chair Ken McDonald said members met with industry stakeholders who raised concerns about foreign farmland ownership several times.
“No names or evidence was brought forward to support this is actually happening,” he said.
McDonald said the Farm Land Security Board is doing a good job overseeing ownership, but some legislative and regulatory updates could streamline the process. He said stronger penalties are needed to reflect increased land values.
Board general manager Kim McLean said the home quarter and foreclosure provisions of the Farm Security Act have only seen small amendments since 1988, and things have changed since then. For example, corporate structures didn’t exist much then, she said.
Amendments could be introduced by spring 2027.
