LETTER

Now the work begins!

 

Thank you to Canadian Ambassador to the US, David MacNaughton. Your reaction to President Trump’s attack on the Canadian dairy industry brought me a certain level of comfort.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke on the matter and didn't disappoint. Thank you, Mr Trudeau, for defending Canada's supply management system and thank you for the clarity with which you stated your position. In defending our system, you stood up for thousands of Canadian farmers, agricultural and agri-business jobs, processing jobs and rural communities across Canada. In defending supply management, you have helped preserve Canada's landscapes, throughout which supply managed farms are woven into the fabric of rural Canada from coast to coast.

To my MP, William Amos, I thank you for providing nothing but assertive support since Trump called out Canadian dairy on Tuesday. You have demonstrated your commitment to the dairy industry in the Pontiac and across the country.

Premier Philippe Couillard, and local MNA, André Fortin, thank you for your swift alliance with Canada's supply managed farmers. Quebec's commitment to agriculture has always been second to none. Thank you for your continued support!

I feel for the Wisconsin farmers who recently received an unexpected letter from their dairy processor, notifying them that there is no longer a need for their milk. These farmers are left trying to find another destination for their product in a market already in a state of oversupply. But, I wholeheartedly agree the US problem is not a trade problem. The problem is the result of a system without any parameters to keep supply in check with what the market demands. In times of surplus and low farm gate prices, the US farmer amplifies the problem in desperation by further increasing output in attempts to make a few extra dollars and survive.

I am grateful to operate my farm within a system that values my product at its cost of production. We have a sustainable system that adequately coordinates the amount farmers produce with the amount the consumer requires. We deliver a safe, quality product at a fair retail price without subsidization from any level of government.

To all of the above-mentioned, please, carry on through negotiations to come with the same courage and conviction you have demonstrated this week. It's in the best interest for our dairy, poultry and egg farmers, our food sovereignty, our economy, our rural communities and our country. Thank you!

Robbie Beck
Clarendon (Pontiac)