The Canadian Pork Council (CPC) and Swine Innovation Porc (SIP) are disappointed by recent federal decisions affecting Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) research facilities and scientific capacity, including centres in Guelph, Quebec City, Lacombe, and the AAFC Nappan Research Farm in Nova Scotia.
Yes, fiscal restraint is a reality, but reducing federal livestock research capacity represents a cut to critical investments and would have long-term risks to producers, the agri-food system, and Canada’s science-based decision-making credibility and food security.
The Canadian Pork Council represents more than 7,000 producers. Together, they contribute more than $8 billion to the Canadian economy, with pork exports exceeding $5 billion. Investments from the industry and government in research and innovation sustain animal health, disease preparedness, antimicrobial stewardship, environmental performance, and productivity.
Swine Innovation Porc coordinates national, producer-driven research investments, that rely on federal facilities to deliver public- good outcomes. These outcomes require independent expertise, long-term infrastructure, and national coordination are required.
Several Swine Innovation Porc supported projects have been conducted at, or are currently led from, AAFC facilities facing closure or funding reductions. One example is the ongoing Swine Cluster 4 pork quality project led by AAFC Lacombe. The project examines genetic and carcass characteristics of pork belly quality, now one of the most valuable cuts of the pig. This research relies on federal infrastructure and expertise to generate large scale carcass and genetic data needed to support balanced genetic selection, improve pork quality, and continue strengthening Canada’s competitiveness in domestic and international markets.
Specialized livestock research capacity cannot be quickly rebuilt once lost. The weakening of this capacity will raise concerns about Canada’s ability to sustain coordinated science-based research that supports market access, value creation across the supply chain, and public confidence in Canadian food production.
The CPC and SIP remain committed to constructive engagement with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and federal decision -makers. Research capacity is a strategic asset, not a discretionary expense. Preserving it is essential to the resilience and competitiveness of Canada’s pork sector and agri-food system.
Source : Swine Innovation Pork