Statement by Government of Canada on dairy industry and Canada-European Union trade deal

Statement

May 2, 2016 – Ottawa, Ontario – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, and the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of International Trade, today issued the following statement on the Government of Canada's commitment to the Canadian dairy industry:

In anticipation of Canadian ratification of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and as part of the government's strong commitment to the Canadian dairy industry, we will move forward with a plan to help the industry adjust to market access concessions.

An appropriate mitigation package is necessary for the Canadian dairy industry. Today we commit to meet with industry within the coming 30 days to obtain its views on the mitigation package. Our conversations will address, among other issues, transition support for producers and processors, as well as proposed program and investment options. The government remains committed to the supply management sector.

Canadians in the dairy industry, in different regions, have shared different priorities about the path forward; together, we will reach the best possible outcome for our dairy farmers, their families, and communities.

The results of this collaboration will inform our discussions with our colleagues. This effort will help Canada's agriculture sector to be safer, stronger, and more innovative.

The government continues to work towards long-term, sustainable solutions to ensure the Canadian dairy industry can grow and thrive in an ever-changing global economy.

CETA is a priority for our government and we are focused on swift ratification so that individuals and businesses, both large and small, are able to benefit from the opportunities offered by this trade agreement.

Contacts

Guy Gallant
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay
613-773-1059

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Hon. Lawrence MacAulay Hon. Chrystia Freeland Global Affairs Canada Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Agriculture