Good News Budget for Rural Saskatchewan

For Immediate Release

Today’s federal budget brought some much needed good news to Canadian farmers with the $1.5 billion funding package.

“This announcement will aid many farmers facing a grim financial situation due to rising input costs, low commodity prices, natural flooding and other pressures,” said SARM President David Marit. “The $500 million per year for farm support is imperative for short-term relief, and the additional $1 billion funding package will be of great assistance over the long-term.”

Under the $1 billion funding package, the government plans to enhance the CAIS program and replace it in the future. The addition of a Cover Crop Protection Program to assist farmers impacted by flood damage comes at a critical time for many Saskatchewan producers.

Continued funding for existing infrastructure programs and the one percentage point reduction in GST are both welcomed announcements and will be of great economic benefit to rural communities.

“We are pleased that that federal government is providing funding for a biofuels strategy and agri-food market development,” said President Marit. “SARM is committed to working with the federal government to build a long-term strategy to re-establish profitability and sustainability in the agriculture sector.”

For more information contact:

David Marit               Ken Engel

President                 Executive Director

(306) 476-7754         (306) 536-2948