| | A task force is recommending a four-stage plan to end the Canadian Wheat Board's monopoly on wheat and barley exports. The report suggests the federal government prepare for change, then form a new wheat board, launch the new wheat board and then oversee a post-transition phase. The seven-member committee, comprised of six groups who oppose the monopoly and a chairman representing Agriculture Canada, concludes that a new farmer-owned wheat board could thrive and create value without a single desk. Federal Agriculture Minister Chuck Strahl says he will spend the next few months examining the recommendations and hearing what farmers and stakeholders have to say.
The preceding is a transcript of the October 31, 2006 program. There may be some omissions due to last minute changes. For further information, contact Caitlynn Reesor at (780) 422-3981 or Ken Blackley at (780) 422-3951. |
|