Canadian pork producers eager to work with processors and partners to find long-term solution to Olymel situation

Apr 19, 2023

OTTAWA – The Canadian Pork Council said Olymel’s announcement of the closure of its Vallée-Jonction, QC plant is tough news for the industry.

“The reasons the company stated - the pandemic, an ongoing labour shortage, inflationary pressures and challenges with accessing foreign markets – have impacted the entire industry,” said Rene Roy, chair of the council. “We know food security is an ongoing question for governments across Canada, and food security starts with producers being able to compete and have buyers for their products.”

“This is tough news to hear, but we will work with governments and with our partners to find long-term solutions. This closure will impact Quebec, Atlantic Canada and other parts of the country, so a national solution is required.”

The pork industry is a $7-billion industry in Canada, with almost $5 billion in exports. “There are international markets for our products, and Canadian pork producers are cost-competitive globally,” said Roy. “We need our trade agreements to work for us, we need our agricultural policies to work for us, and we need to work together as an
industry to find long-term solutions.”

Roy thanked the Government of Canada and the Province of Quebec for their efforts to this point, and said producers are going to be part of the ongoing dialogue.

“For now, we need to focus on the almost 1,000 Olymel employees who will be laidoff in a rural region of Canada, and on the producers who need to find a new home to
sell their products,” said Roy. “The Canadian Pork Council will work with all those who can bring solutions to this challenge.”

Source : Canadian Pork Council

Video: You Be The Judge: Evaluating 8 Breeding Rams!

It's time for some honest feedback here at Ewetopia Farms! Today, we’re showing you all eight rams we used for breeding this year. Instead of just presenting them, we thought it would be fun to create a “Ram Report Card” — where we point out both their strengths and areas for improvement.

But here’s the twist: you be the judge! In the comments, let us know what you like about each ram and what you think could be improved. No ram is ever perfect, but every one of them brings something valuable to the flock. By sharing perspectives, we all learn more about what to look for in good breeding stock.

At Ewetopia Farms, we raise registered Suffolk and Polled Dorset sheep, focusing on high-quality genetics, structure, and friendly temperaments. Evaluating breeding rams is part of the bigger picture of building stronger flocks — and we’re excited to share the process with you.

If you enjoy seeing how we evaluate our animals, follow along by subscribing to our channel. We share daily insights into the joys and challenges of sheep farming here in Canada.