CALGARY – Federal agriculture minister Ralph Goodale downplayed the significance of Alberta’s marketing plebiscite, saying the vote will only provide “a snapshot of opinion” from one province.
“The Alberta plebiscite may bring forward some useful information. It may provide a snapshot of opinion in the province at a particular moment in time,” Goodale told reporters after addressing a Calgary meeting of beef exporters.
The Canadian Wheat Board’s ability to act as the only seller of western barley and wheat is governed by federal law. This right is being challenged in a provincial plebiscite Nov. 13-24.
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“The difficulty of trying to address an issue related to grain marketing, on the basis of a one province only plebiscite, flies in the face of the existing and real jurisdiction,” he said.
Information only
He added the plebiscite results may add useful information on wheat board reform which is expected to start next summer following a report from a specially appointed western grain marketing panel.
Goodale has instructed a nine-member committee to bring opposing sides together in a series of meetings. They are expected to discuss whether Canada should continue to maintain the board as the only agency allowed to sell barley and wheat internationally.
When asked if Canadian Wheat Board staff was told to keep its distance from the Alberta plebiscite campaign, Goodale said he trusted the board to conduct itself in a professional manner. The board may provide information, but will not exceed its mandate, he said.
No interference found
During wheat board advisory committee elections last year, some critics accused the board of interfering to ensure pro-board supporters were elected. Goodale said his investigations showed the board “abided by the rules” and did not interfere.
While admitting any institution including the wheat board can be improved or enhanced in the way it does business, Goodale said, “my personal instinct is to support the board. It’s no secret I am a supporter of the Canadian Wheat Board.”
The Alberta plebiscite questions, which require yes or no answers, are as follows:
- Are you in favor of having the freedom to sell your barley to any buyer, including the Canadian Wheat Board, into domestic and export markets?
- Are you in favor of having the freedom to sell your wheat to any buyer, including the Canadian Wheat Board, into domestic and export markets?
