Ag groups included in calling on federal government to strengthen Canadian competitiveness

More than 60 work stoppages is unacceptable, the organizations said

Two organizations from Canada’s ag sector are part of an overall coalition asking the federal government to take action to improve Canada’s competitiveness.

The Canadian Federation of Agriculture and Fertilizer Canada joined other groups like the Railway Association of Canada and Global Automakers of Canada encouraging the Liberals to take actions resulting in investment, certainty, and reliability.

The groups call on the government to take three specific actions.

The first is to encourage private sector investments using tax policies placing Canada on par with other countries like the U.S.

“Simply put, investing in Canada right now is not the best financial choice for many industries,” the groups say.

Specifically, the groups cite accelerated depreciation.

This allows companies to reduce its taxable income in earlier years compared to later years.

The second request is for the federal government to change regulatory procedures to help major projects receive approval quickly.

Red tape and other delays turn investors away from Canada.

“Canada’s private sector supports the need for high environmental standards; however, current regulatory processes are too long, duplicative and unpredictable, particularly compared to other jurisdictions that are competing for investments,” the organizations said.

And the third request asks the government to take measures to support labour stability.

A framework that includes wages, the right to strike, and ensuring work can continue in the event of labour challenges, will help Canada’s reputation as a reliable trading partner.

“In the last two years, Canada experienced more than 62 work stoppages in the transportation sector alone, an unacceptable level of disruption,” the groups wrote, adding that clear and transparent processes to resolve labour disputes quickly is essential.