Ag in the House: Oct. 6 – 10

The government repeated its support for supply management

The Liberal government held its position on supply management when the Bloc Quebecois pressed MPs on the topic during question period last week.

On Oct. 7, Yves Perron, the Bloc’s agriculture critic, reminded the House about Bill C-202 and how it protects supply management.

He asked the government about following through on this commitment, citing media reports indicating the government is considering changes to allow more American dairy across the border.

“Will the government keep its word and refuse to make any concessions?” Perron asked.

Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon answered on behalf of the government.

He told the House the Liberals supported that law and will continue to do so.

“Supply management is not on the table, and spreading fear will not change that,” he said.

On Oct. 10, the Conservatives continued to pressure the government on their response to China’s tariffs on Canadian canola.

Steven Bonk, the Conservative MP for Souris-Moose Mountain, Sask., wanted to know how the Liberals are supporting farmers affected by these tariffs.

“When will the Liberals stop abandoning Canadian farmers and finally, for once, stand up for the good people who feed this country?” he asked.

Sophie Chatel, the parliamentary secretary to Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald, provided the response.

She agreed with Souris that China’s tariffs are unfair, and reminded the House of the work the government is doing to resolve this issue.

“We have announced $370 million in support, and we have changed the regulations to allow more biofuel in this country, which will use the product from our canola producers,” she said.

MPs aren’t sitting the week of Oct. 13 to 17.

Ag in the House will return on Oct. 27 to cover the week of Oct. 20 to 24.