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Bibeau launches review of Canada Grain Act

Marie-Claude Bibeau, minister of agriculture and agri-food, recently announced the launch of the consultation phase of the Canada Grain Act review. She made the announcement while speaking at CropSphere’s annual general meetings, hosted by the Saskatchewan Crop Organizations.

The Canada Grain Act is the legislative and regulatory framework for grain quality assurance in Canada. The Act sets out the objectives and functions of the Canadian Grain Commission, which is responsible for regulating grain quality and handling in Canada.

Under the Canada Grain Act, the Canadian Grain Commission is responsible for establishing and maintaining Canada’s grain grading system. The Commission also provides various safeguards for grain farmers.

The consultation will allow the federal government to hear the perspectives of the grain sector on how to reform the Act. The consultation portion of the Canada Grain Act review will be held online until April 30.

“Our Government is inviting Canadian producers, grain handlers, processors, and exporters to share their views on possible changes to the Canada Grain Act,” Bibeau said in a press release. “Together, we will help shape an innovative and modern regulatory system that safeguards grain farmers, grows Canada’s reputation for grain quality and helps our grain industry compete with the world.”

The government is seeking feedback from grain industry stakeholders on ways to potentially update the legislation, which has largely been unchanged for almost half a century.

“The marketplace for grain has greatly evolved over the past half century, and now is the time for the Canada Grain Act to reflect that evolution,” said Jim Carr, special representative for the Prairies. “I encourage all those with a stake in Canada’s grain industry to make their voices heard as part of this consultation.”

Views and suggestions will be analysed to determine what changes to the Act may be needed to help ensure Canada remains a strong competitor in the modern, global grain market.

The review will also complement the work being done by the Government’s Agri-Food and Aquaculture Regulatory Review Roadmap and the Economic Strategy Table for Agri-Food.