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Affordability is the key focus for 2023

Conservative Shadow Critic for Agriculture, Agri-Food and Food Security John Barlow says their leader Pierre Poilievre has been talking about that on an ongoing basis.

He notes we also need to see affordability for the ag sector, adding there's a great deal of optimism, but producers need to be able to reach that potential.

"In 2023, we need to reduce some of the red tape, some of the financial obstacles that are in the way. Everywhere from the carbon tax, fertilizer prices, and input costs, but also address, you know, pinch points within the supply chain. You know whether that's CFIA or labor struggles with the rail lines and port capacity.  There are some big challenges ahead of us.  And for us, we need to see Canada be the "can do" country again, not the can't country. Improving our infrastructure in the supply chain is going to a critical priority for us as Conservatives."

He says they'll continue to push the Liberals to put some serious resources and work into that.

"It's not just about making announcements, it's about actually getting things done."

Barlow says obviously they'll also continue to push on the carbon tax and ask for no increases come April 1st.

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A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

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The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.