opinion
Once again, it could be said, important agricultural issues have been abruptly shoved aside while policymakers and urban news media focus on some comparatively frivolous topic. That could be one way of describing how the annual delegates’ meeting of Saskatchewan Wheat Pool might have to be moved to a different date in 1995 because a sporting event called the Grey Cup has been awarded to Regina.
Well, that could be said. But it won’t be, at least not in this space. The fact is that any such move would be done voluntarily, as part of enthusiastic efforts by Saskatchewan institutions to make the 1995 Grey Cup a success. Besides, spring is coming and the weather has been too pleasant to permit such carping.
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Moreover, even from a self-interested agricultural viewpoint, the Grey Cup decision is helpful. It’s not so much the economic activity it will bring to the province – the greatest benefits may come in improved morale and self-image for Saskatchewan as a whole.
Symbolically, holding the Grey Cup game in the centre of the Prairies suggests that this region is still healthy and vibrant, still capable of exciting new ventures. Despite the rough years that farm families have come through, the agricultural economy is not a basket case like the Atlantic cod fishery.
Instead of associating the Prairies or Saskatchewan with images of bankrupt farms, perhaps people across Canada will now be a little more likely to have positive images of the area.
The timing of the decision was also appropriate. With spring approaching and the weather finally providing relief from Arctic-level temperatures, it’s the season when hope and optimism are most needed, as spring seeding plans are developed.
It’s important to remember that, despite all the gloom over farm income statistics, another crop is about to go in the ground. What has been called the annual economic megaproject is about to begin again, with benefits that will be spread throughout the Prairies.
As always, farmers will be reviewing their crop selections and farming practices, looking for ways to improve their financial viability. Hopefully, farm families will retain a little more of the economic benefits they produce than they have in past years.
All this fits in well with the message left by prime minister ChrŽtien during his Saskatoon visit last week. Canadians, he said, should not give in to despair – economic problems are serious, but if people and governments concentrate on job creation and improved productivity, the economy can regain its health.
As usual, Prairie farm families will be doing their share, and more, to help in realizing that goal.
