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Shutting down the Wheat Board is a recipe for failed farms, lower prices for farmers and, ultimately, American control of a Canadian industry.
Ottawa (7 Nov. 2011) - Since the Harper government won its majority in May 2011, more and more often the voices of those opposing its direction have been silenced as they ram through unwanted legislation. In the next 60 days, the Conservative government is going to continue down that road and eliminate the Canadian Wheat Board (CWB).
As a result, thousands of farmers will be left on their own to negotiate their price against giant American multinational grain companies.
This legislation comes on the heels of 62 per cent of Canadian farmers voted to maintain the CWB. By law, Prime Minister Harper must put the dismantling of the CWB to a vote amongst farmers. He has not. Harper is thumbing his nose in their direction based on his own ideology.
Shutting down the Wheat Board is a recipe for failed farms, lower prices for farmers and, ultimately, American control of a Canadian industry. The CWB has been a strong voice for farmers and delivered superior financial returns to farmers for over 75 years.
Due to conditions under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), if we lose the Wheat Board now, it can never be brought back.
A urgent response is needed, not just from farmers but from Canadians across the country.
There are a number of ways to voice your opposition to the dismantling of the CBW:
- Send a message to your elected official;
- Read CWB chair's Oct. 17 remarks re: federal approach;
- Watch a video of farmers who support the Canadian Wheat Board; and
- View more information on the plebiscite
Learn how you can show your support through texts, Facebook and Twitter at www.stopthesteamroller.ca.
More information:
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The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE