The LineUp
The LineUp content hub features the latest releases and articles as they are distributed by Newsline, and it serves as a central location for the agriculture sector and media professionals to stay informed and up to date.
Farm Groups Call for Reversal of Capital Gains Inclusion Rate
(OTTAWA, ON – January 17, 2025) The over 130,000 Canadian farmers and ranchers represented by the Canadian Canola Growers Association, Canadian Cattle Association and Grain Growers of Canada are calling on the Government of Canada to reverse its decision to administer the proposed capital gains inclusion rate legislation. Despite the fact that the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance tabled a Notice of Ways and Means Motion (NWMM) to introduce a bill entitled An Act to amend the Income Tax Act and the Income Tax Regulations, these changes are subject to parliamentary approval and should not be implemented without the express approval of Parliament. The average age of Canadian farmers is now over 55 years old and tens of billions of dollars in farm assets are set to change hands over the next decade. Canadian farms continue to expand, often supporting multiple households, with more and more farms incorporating for tax and estate planning purposes. Meanwhile the cost of land and farm assets continues to rise and those looking to purchase a farm face unprecedented capital costs. We continue to express opposition to the accelerated pace of implementation, the lack of consultation in the lead-up to these proposals, and the changes that undermine the …
Viterra-Bunge Acquisition Approval Fails Canada’s Grain Farmers
Jan. 15, 2025 (Ottawa, ON) – Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) is extremely disappointed with the decision made yesterday by the Minister of Transport to approve the acquisition of Viterra by Bunge without a divestment of G3. While the approval does include divestments of six grain elevators in Western Canada and a $520 million investment commitment from Bunge, these measures are woefully inadequate to address the profound impact on market competition. GGC has consistently raised concerns about the merger and its long-term consequences for farmers. “Minister Anand’s decision to approve the acquisition, even with conditions, doesn’t go nearly far enough,” said Kyle Larkin, Executive Director of GGC. “The divestment of six grain elevators is a token gesture in the face of a company that maintains a 25% stake in G3, greatly reducing competition across the Prairies and in Quebec. These conditions do little to offset the $770 million annual cost this merger will impose on farmers.” The Competition Bureau and research conducted by the University of Saskatchewan found that an acquisition without a divestment of G3 would weaken competition in certain geographic regions across the country, notably in Manitoba and Saskatchewan canola crushing markets. The university report calculated a $770 million …
Canada Grains Council Welcomes CUSMA Panel Decision on Genetically Modified Corn
Jan. 6, 2025 (Ottawa, ON) – The Canada Grains Council (CGC) welcomes the recent CUSMA panel ruling, which determined that the restrictions Mexico placed on genetically modified (GM) corn were not scientifically justified. Predictable and science-based trade rules are the foundation of a stable and secure food supply across North America. “For Canadian farmers and grain exporters, reliable access to international markets can mean the difference between success and failure,” said Krista Thomas, Vice-President, Trade Policy and Seed Innovation for the CGC. “When major trading partners like Mexico veer away from science-based rules, it creates uncertainty for farmers who rely on GM crops to run their farms efficiently, stay profitable, and take care of the environment.” “GM crops enable farming practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve soil health,” she added. The dispute centered on Mexico’s 2023 presidential decree, which banned the use of GM corn in dough and tortillas and proposed a phased reduction of GM corn in animal feed and other food uses. The panel found these measures were not based on international standards or guidelines and noted that Mexico failed to conduct a risk assessment before issuing the decree. “Canadian officials and technical experts played a …
Grain Growers of Canada Announces New Executive
Dec. 10, 2024 (Ottawa, ON) – Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) is pleased to announce its newly elected executive, bringing a wealth of experience and fresh perspectives to the organization’s leadership. Tara Sawyer, a grain farmer from Acme, Alberta and Chair of Alberta Grains, has been elected as Chair of GGC. As the first woman to hold this role, Sawyer’s leadership marks an important milestone in GGC’s history. Her dedication to advocating for farmers and her deep understanding of association governance will help guide the organization as it continues to address the challenges and opportunities facing producers. Joining her are Scott Hepworth, a grain grower from Assiniboia, Saskatchewan and a Director of the Saskatchewan Wheat Development Commission, as First Vice Chair. Sally Parsonage, a grain producer from Baldur, Manitoba and the Secretary of Manitoba Crop Alliance, joins the executive as Second Vice Chair. “We are excited to work under the guidance of this new executive, whose leadership and vision will help advance the priorities of Canada’s grain farmers,” said Kyle Larkin, Executive Director of GGC. “With Tara Sawyer, Scott Hepworth, and Sally Parsonage at the helm, GGC is well-positioned to address critical issues in 2025 and beyond, such as …
Canada Grains Council’s President Elected as Vice-President of the International Grain Trade Coalition
Nov. 18, 2024 (Geneva, Switzerland) – The International Grain Trade Coalition (IGTC) held its General Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, bringing together members from around the globe for a hybrid in-person and virtual event. The event focused on strategic planning for 2025 and beyond, including key issues such as non tariff regulatory trade barriers, adopting innovative digital solutions to streamline trade, and fostering stronger partnerships and advocacy to support and promote the grain trade with global organizations like the WTO. A key highlight of the General Assembly was the election of a new executive team, with Erin Gowriluk, President of the Canada Grains Council (CGC), being elected as Vice-President. Alongside Erin, Pat O’Shannassy, CEO of Grain Trade Australia, was named IGTC President, and Rosalind Leeck, Executive Director for Market Access & Strategy with the U.S. Soybean Export Council, elected as Secretary. Gerald Makau Masila was re-elected as Treasurer. In response, Erin Gowriluk, President of the Canada Grains Council, issued the following: “I am so proud to have been given the opportunity to serve as Vice-President of the IGTC during a critical time for the global grain trade. As a founding member of the Coalition, the Canada Grains Council has always championed the IGTC’s mission of fostering science-based, …
AgSafe Alberta launches FARMERS CARE Level 4
Oct. 16, 2024 (Calgary, AB) – AgSafe Alberta is proud to announce the launch of the fourth and final stage in its FARMERS CARE program. FARMERS CARE Level 4 is now available at AgSafeAB.ca. This free program provides valuable safety information in an accessible and engaging format that agricultural producers can navigate at their own pace. AgSafe Alberta knows farmers and ranchers are extremely busy people and wants to respect their time. That is why all levels of FARMERS CARE cover a wealth of valuable information in a condensed format, avoiding the major time commitment that typically comes with intensive safety courses. “FARMERS CARE is a great way for farmers and ranchers to start building a culture of safety on their operations,” says AgSafe Alberta chair Ian Chitwood. “With a very small investment of time, you can learn critical information and strategies that have the potential to prevent serious injuries and save lives.” FARMERS CARE is an acronym that represents the 11 most common types of farm incidents – all of which are detailed on AgSafeAB.ca. The first level of FARMERS CARE helps farmers and ranchers identify common agricultural hazards and learn how to control them, while introducing basic health and …
Funding Approved for the Global Agriculture Technology Exchange (Gate)
Saskatoon, SK (Sept. 17, 2024) – The Saskatchewan Wheat Development Commission (Sask Wheat) has approved funding for the Global Agriculture Technology Exchange (Gate) initiative of $6,243,074. Sask Wheat is joined by Alberta Grains ($4,319,798) and Manitoba Crop Alliance ($2,655,587). “Gate puts in place infrastructure for Saskatchewan wheat farmers to continue their investment in market support, which our international customers value when they purchase Canadian wheat, as well as market development so that we can continue to meet global demand for high quality Canadian grains”, says Gate Capital Campaign Cabinet Honourary Member and Sask Wheat Director, Rob Stone. This investment is based on the business plan provided by Cereals Canada, which underscores the necessity of a new facility to help the cereals industry grow and thrive. The funding is conditional upon securing the required financial support from government entities and other funding partners. Additionally, Sask Wheat’s representatives on the Cereals Canada Board will oversee that the needs of Cereals Canada and the operational costs are managed in accordance with the directions of the Cereals Canada Board. “Canada’s cereals sector leads the country’s ag exports to over 80 international destinations, valued at over $10 billion. Having unimpeded access to these international destinations …
Alberta Grains Supports Global Agriculture Technology Exchange (Gate) Initiative with $4.3 Million Investment
Sept. 17, 2024 (Calgary, AB) – Alberta Grains is pleased to announce its significant financial commitment to the Global Agriculture Technology Exchange (Gate) initiative, approving an investment of $4,319,798. This funding is part of a broader $13.2 million collaboration involving key agricultural organizations across Canada, including Sask Wheat, and Manitoba Crop Alliance. The Gate initiative, spearheaded by Cereals Canada, aims to create a state-of-the-art facility that will serve as a hub for market access, development and innovation within Canada’s cereals sector. This new facility is poised to enhance Canada’s standing as a global leader in agricultural exports, providing crucial infrastructure to support the continued growth and competitiveness of our cereals industry. “Alberta Grains recognizes the critical role that market access and development play in maintaining our competitive edge on the global stage,” said Greg Sears, Alberta Grains Region 6 Director. “The Gate initiative will not only reinforce our existing markets but will also open new avenues for growth and innovation, ensuring that Alberta’s wheat and barley producers remain at the forefront of global trade.” This investment aligns with Alberta Grains’ ongoing commitment to advancing agricultural technology and innovation. The Gate facility will serve as a central point for training and …
