Resolution No. 11-03M

WHEREAS, there is going to be a backlog of low grade beef products available in the near future; and

WHEREAS, the Federal Government is planning to subsidize the feeders of this beef; and

WHEREAS, the lower grade cuts may be incinerated;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the beef that will be considered low cut or lower grade be purchased by the Federal Government and given to food banks, school cafeterias and other government institutions.

Response From Honourable Clay Serby, Minister of Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food & Rural Revitalization:

There is no substantial "backlog" or surplus of "low grade" or manufacturing beef. Current reports indicate that processors are having trouble accessing sufficient volumes of Canadian product. There continues to be, however, limited kill space dedicated to cow and bull slaughter. As a result of consumers and fast-food outlets rallying around the Canadian beef industry, the supply of grinding beef has been barely sufficient to meet industry needs and has at times created shortages.

With the opening of borders to youthful cattle exports from Canada, packers have concentrated on slaughtering heifers and steers and have not slaughtered enough cows to meet the demand. Consequently, the current backlog of culled animals from the beef herd is being created by not enough kill capacity in the industry. Saskatchewan intends to participate in some form in the recently announced National Cull Animal Program to help Saskatchewan Producers deal with older animals that need to be culled from herds.