Cam Dahl, the General Manager of Manitoba Pork, discussed various topics concerning the hog industry in Manitoba and the broader agricultural landscape. The dialogue touched upon the critical role of policy formation and decision-making in the government, highlighting the need for a collaborative approach with producers to ensure the long-term fiscal sustainability of farms.
Dahl said it’s important to focus on doing it right at the beginning of a new government in Manitoba on the NDP government’s first Throne Speech Day.
“To discuss how we get good policy and decision-making fundamentals in place. And if we can get that right, the rest will follow as they say,” he said.
The conversation delved into the potential negative impact of specific regulations, drawing attention to the Red Tractor certification in England.
Red Tractor champions British food and farmers and is the UK’s largest food and farm standards scheme.
Dahl expressed concern based on the experience of a top pork producer in England, Adrian Shoot, who attributed the decline of the pork industry in England to the introduction of the Red Tractor certification. Dahl emphasized the importance of government personnel developing regulations and legislation with producers, underlining the significance of environmental and fiscal sustainability for the farming community.
The discussion expanded to the broader role of the government, with a call for all cabinet members to recognize agriculture as a pivotal sector driving Manitoba’s economy and job market. Dahl stressed that economic and trade ministers, environmental ministers, and education ministers all share responsibility in considering agriculture as a critical driver for growth in the province. The potential for investment and growth in agriculture is vast, contingent on a collective mindset within the government that places agriculture at the forefront of economic policies.
One of the prominent challenges discussed was the rise of protectionism in the global market, with a particular focus on the United States.
Dahl highlighted the increasing trend of “America First” policies and protectionist measures, posing a threat to the international market access for farmers and processors in Manitoba.
“Most farmers in Manitoba depend upon international markets for sales opportunities and price determination. Take the hog industry as an example; 90 percent of Manitoba’s annual production goes to international markets,” said Dahl.
He underscored the need for governments to protect market access actively, ensuring that trading partners adhere to agreements recognizing Canada’s science-based food safety and animal welfare laws.
Sustainability emerged as a critical theme in the conversation, aligning with the growing emphasis on environmental sustainability in government initiatives. Dahl noted that farmers are committed to ensuring the health and productivity of land and water for future generations. He urged governments to recognize and appreciate the continuous improvement in the sustainability of agricultural production in Manitoba.
“Notable examples, such as robust manure management policies, is evidence of the industry’s dedication to sustainable practices,” said Dahl.
A crucial “ask” from farmers to the government — a commitment to advancing sustainability through a collaborative model rather than a punitive regulatory approach. Dahl emphasized the resistance that arises when governments impose regulations without the involvement of the agricultural community.
“Regulations that potentially negatively impact the competitiveness of Manitoba’s farmers in international markets. We call for collaboration and innovation encouragement to enhance fiscal and environmental sustainability,” said the MPC general manager.
“Hog farming and pork processing alone account for over 22,000 jobs in rural areas and Brandon, Neepawa, Winkler, Winnipeg, and more of our urban centres. Agriculture cannot be an afterthought for economic policies.”
In conclusion, the conversation painted a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities facing the hog industry in Manitoba and agriculture in general. The appreciation for Cam Dahl’s leadership in navigating these complex issues was evident, reiterating the commitment to working with the government to realize agriculture’s potential contribution to the province’s growth.
This dialogue underscores the intricate relationship between government policies, producer collaboration, and the overarching sustainability goals in the agricultural landscape. As Manitoba welcomes a new government, the foundation for long-term policies and collaborative approaches is deemed essential for the prosperity of the farming sector.
Note: “I was pleased to see agriculture recognized in the Speech from the Throne,” said Dahl after reading the Speech from the Throne in Manitoba. It pleased him to see that the government recognized the contribution by Manitoba’s farmers and welcomed the commitment to partnership with producers and the industry, the emphasis on science and research is positive. “While we do not have the details on how these comments will become policy and implemented, we commit to working with the government to realize the potential contribution agriculture can make to the province’s growth.”
Manitoba Pork congratulated Minister Ron Kostyshyn on his appointment as the new Minister of Agriculture for the province. Manitoba Pork looks forward to continuing a strong working relationship with the provincial government.
“Manitoba’s hog farmers, and the over 22,000 Manitobans who work in the hog sector welcomed Minister Kostyshyn to his portfolio,” said Rick Préjet, chair of Manitoba Pork. “We look forward to working with Minister Kostyshyn and their entire department to build on the collaborative working relationship we have developed with the department over the last number of years, and to ensure that the conditions for growth in agriculture and the hog sector remain in place for many years to come.” •

— By Harry Siemens