Ottawa, ON - The Western Canadian Wheat Growers Association firmly supports efforts to create value in the seed sector and reward those investing in breeding.
“Why wouldn’t farmers want both public and private breeders to develop new wheat varieties to provide more technology and choice?” says Gunter Jochum, Manitoba farmer, Director of the Wheat Growers, and participant of the first consultation in Winnipeg November 23rd.
Wheat Growers are pleased Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) have organized consultation sessions regarding value creation models for cereals research and variety development in Canada.
The Grains Roundtable proposed two revenue producing models, both of which are viable options in the eyes of The Wheat Growers. “We’re letting the consultation process run its course before stating a preferred choice. Wheat Growers are fully engaged in the sessions, and are keen to learn more about the pros and cons of both solutions,” Gunter explained.
The Wheat Growers feel it’s important for policy makers to know we support the ongoing process of consulting across the value chain.
"As farmers, we don’t feel the status quo is good enough, and want improvements including more investment, innovation and competition,” states Levi Wood, President of the Wheat Growers. “Competition is good, so if a new system encourages and facilitates more of it, we feel confident it’s a move in the right direction.”
Source : wheatgrowers.ca