Cattle theft a problem
CYPRESS HILLS PROVINCIAL PARK, Sask. — RCMP should better address the growing problem of cattle theft, say the province’s cow-calf producers.
A resolution passed at the recent annual meeting of the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association called on the organization to work with rural municipalities and the Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association to lobby the government and RCMP for a dedicated livestock theft investigator.
The position would be paid through existing per capita levies paid by rural municipalities for RCMP service.
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Another resolution asked the SSGA board to work with the Canadian Cattle Identification Agency on a process that would allow the agency’s data to help with livestock theft and fraud investigations.
SSGA director Gerry Duckworth said the RCMP could stop any vehicles they suspect are carrying stolen cattle, scan the animals’ identification tags and hold the vehicle until CCIA confirmation of ownership.
The intent is to share this information only in the event of a criminal investigation, added SCA president Mark Elford.
SSGA past-president Calvin Knoss said he cautiously supported the idea, given what the industry told producers when CCIA was first being implemented.
“We promised them this information would be confidential and we’d only use it for animal health and safety issues,” he said.
The motion passed.
Code of practice concerns
Stock growers want to make sure the revised code of practice for beef cattle, which is being written, treats them fairly.
They passed a motion to work with the federal agriculture department and the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association to ensure a balanced approach. Several members noted that increased restrictions could be placed on them if they aren’t involved in developing the new code.
Some concerns include being forced to use local anesthetic during dehorning and castration.
Board members nominated
Five producers were nominated to fill six positions on the SSGA board of directors: Grant Alexander, Ryan Beierbach, Helen Finucane, Doug Gillespie and Gerald Schultz. Outgoing board members are Heather S. Beierbach and Paul Jefferson.
