Alberta’s new Farmers’ Advocate wants to listen, learn and then take on the challenges of speaking on behalf of Alberta’s farmers and ranchers.
Vegreville lawyer Peter Dobbie takes over the role April 2 from Jim Kiss, who left the job last June.
It’s the first time a lawyer has held the top job in the advocate’s office.
Dobbie hopes to use his legal training to wade through complex issues that land in the Farmers’ Advocate office.
“I want to bring the advocate back into the Farmers’ Advocate office,” said Dobbie,” who plans to spend much of his time to farmers and supporting them.
Read Also
Canada lifts several import tariffs on U.S. goods as talks continue
Starting September 1, Canada will adjust its tariffs on agricultural products, consumer goods and machinery, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced at a press conference in Ottawa on Friday.
“My priority will be to make sure I am out meeting with all the stakeholders,” said Dobbie, who will make his first appearance at the Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties meeting March 20.
The Farmers’ Advocate’s office was created in 1973, by Alberta premier Peter Llougheed, at the height of the oil and gas boom. Helping farmers deal with surface rights issues was important for farmers and ranchers then and it continues to be one of the biggest issues for Advocate staff.
The office’s job is to protect the rights of rural Albertans. They also administer the Farm Implement Act, which provides consumer protection through warranty, parts availability and licensing provisions for farm equipment.
Dobbie said by talking to farmers, ranchers and high level officials, he hopes to help shape policies that benefit farmers.
Dobbie said he has been working for farmers and the farm industry since 1981 in various roles.
