On February 10, 2022, Bob Lowe and Fawn Jackson appeared at the House of Commons Standing Committee on Agriculture, on the first day of the “Agriculture and Agri-Food Supply Chain” study. They discussed challenges in the beef sector and identified potential solutions including investments in infrastructure, labour, quick responsive emergency programs, and a prioritization of trade as critical pieces to long-term resiliency. To watch the full meeting, click here.
On February 7, Bill C-234, An Act to amend the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act was introduced for first reading in the House of Commons by Ontario Conservative MP, Ben Lobb. Bill C-234 builds on previous private Members’ bills and includes specific language to exempt farming practices critical to cattle producers’ operations including heating and cooling of livestock barns and steam flaking. CCA will continue to advocate for Bill C-234 as it moves through the legislative process and encourage multi-party support to ensure cattle producers receive the much needed carbon tax exemption. Bill C-234 can be viewed here.
On February 4, Bill C-231, An Act to amend the Competition Act (vehicle repair) was introduced for first reading in the House of Commons by Ontario NDP MP, Brian Masse. Bill C-231 aims to protect Canadian vehicle owners by ensuring aftermarket repair shops can access the same tools and parts available to dealerships. CCA is looking into Bill C-231 further and we will monitor its progression. We will engage with Parliamentarians as we learn more about the impacts to the beef sector. Bill C-231 can be viewed here.