The Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) and the National Feeders’ Association (NCFA) are highly concerned about the potential impacts of a rail strike, including devastating consequences to Canada’s beef industry.
Western Canadian cattle producers are dependent on feed shipments from the U.S. because of the hard-hitting drought producers faced last year from BC through to Ontario. A disruption in shipments of feed grain from the United States (U.S.) will significantly impact the ability of beef producers to feed their cattle. Prior issues with rail and transportation had already reduced feed availability and feeders have been managing their needs on a train-by-train basis. There is no buffer in the system.
CCA and NCFA are strongly encouraging both sides to reach a solution prior to the strike action deadline. In the event a solution cannot be reached, the parties should move directly to binding arbitration to avoid a strike and the resulting necessity of implementing back-to-work legislation. It is imperative to prevent the serious consequences that would arise from a shortage of critical feed supplies on Canadian beef operations.
According to Statistics Canada, Alberta and Saskatchewan corn imports in 2021 were up 400 per cent.