E-Newsletter dsfsfa A long weekend update from MBP June 30, 2022
mbbeef.ca
Canadian meat industry pleased to see exemption for ground meats in Health Canada’s final Front-of-Package labelling regulations recognizing the nutrient value of ground beef and pork, and for listening to our concerns. To the many leaders who advocated on our behalf both publicly and with colleagues, thank you for your tireless efforts—notably John Barlow, Conservative Agriculture Critic; Yves Perron, Bloc Quebecois Agriculture Critic; Francis Drouin, Parliamentary Secretary to Agriculture and Agri-Food; Kody Blois, MP and AGRI Chair; and Senators Rob Black, Don Plett, and Paula Simons. Quotes: (June 30, 2022, Canadian Cattlemen’s Association, Canadian Meat Council, Canadian Pork Council, National Cattle Feeders’ Association joint media release) Today, the Honourable Jean-
Yves Duclos, Minister of Health announced the finalized Front-of-Package labelling regulations, part of the Government of Canada’s Healthy Eating Strategy. In the finalized regulations, ground beef and pork are exempt from the requirement of having a front-of-package warning label. We are pleased that the Government of Canada listened to our sector’s concerns and reversed the policy proposal on ground beef and pork--nutrient-dense, affordable proteins. Thank you to all beef and pork producers and consumers across the country for raising the issue with elected representatives. Almost 50 per cent of beef consumed in Canada is ground beef and more than 90 per cent of Canadians consume ground beef on a weekly basis. Ground beef is one of the most popular and trusted sources of protein and an incredibly important source of revenue for the beef industry. The finalized regulations demonstrate a recognition of what consumers, farmers and ranchers know well, beef and pork are wholesome sources of highquality protein that are important staples in Canadians’ diet. We thank the Government of Canada, including the Prime Minister, Minister Duclos and Minister Bibeau for
“Canadian families rely on ground beef as a nutritious and affordable food staple and an important contributor to food security. We are pleased with Health Canada’s decision to omit ground beef from requiring a misleading warning label.” Reg Schellenberg, President of the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association “CMC is pleased that Health Canada is exempting ground meat like most other countries. This exemption will ensure that our members can continue to export their products without additional challenges, allowing us to keep feeding the world and Canadians with our world-class protein.” Chris White, President & CEO, Canadian Meat Council “We’re pleased Health Canada is exempting ground pork along with other nutritious foods such as milk, eggs, vegetables, and fruit from a front-of-package label. Ground pork is a convenient, whole food that contributes essential nutrients many Canadians need more of in their diets.” Rick Bergmann, Chair of the Canadian Pork Council “Canada’s cattle feeders take great pride in producing high quality, nutritious beef using sustainable practices. We appreciate the Government of Canada recognising ground beef and pork as a healthy part of the Canadian diet.” James Bekkering, Board Chair of the National Cattle Feeders’ Association The news release from Health Canada is available starting on page 3.
For reliable information and resources please visit:
Government of Canada unveils new frontof-package nutrition symbol Nutrition symbol will help Canadians identify foods high in saturated fat, sugars or sodium
Note: Ground beef is now exempt from the requirement of having a front-of-package label. (June 30, 2022 Health Canada News Release)
Keeping Canadians healthy is one of the Government of Canada's top priorities. Having clear and easy to access information on the foods Canadians find in their grocery stores is an important part of that. The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Health, announced new nutrition labelling regulations for packaged foods to help Canadians make informed food choices. These regulations will require a new symbol to be displayed on the front of packaged foods that are high in saturated fat, sugars and/or sodium. Manufacturers have until January 1, 2026, to change their labels and comply with the new requirement. The new nutrition symbol includes a magnifying glass and text to draw attention to important information Canadians should consider as they are buying groceries. The symbol will complement the Nutrition Facts table displayed on the back of food packages.
diet-related chronic diseases. Other components of the Strategy include the updated Nutrition Facts table and Canada's food guide, which offers recipe ideas, tips for healthy eating, and healthy eating resources. Quotes "We want all Canadians to have the information they need to make healthy food choices. In the coming years, the symbol will make it easier for you and your family to make informed choices. This simple, yet effective nutrition symbol will promote healthy eating for all Canadians." The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos Minister of Health "The new front-of-package labelling regulations will allow consumers to make informed decisions about their food. It also recognizes the nutritional value of certain foods that are either unprocessed or barely processed, such as calcium in dairy products. Processors who wish to do so have a few years to review their processes and, in some cases, improve their recipes."
Front-of-package nutrition labelling is widely recognized by scientists and health organizations, including the World Health Organization, as an effective tool to help individuals make informed choices. Research shows that a simple, clear symbol on the front of food packages will help consumers choose foods lower in saturated fat, sugars and/or sodium.
The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
Front-of-package nutrition labelling is a key part of Health Canada's Healthy Eating Strategy, which aims to improve the food environment in Canada, make it easier for Canadians to make informed food choices, and lower the risk of
Doug Roth Chief Executive Officer, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada
"Mandatory, front-of-package nutrition labelling is a policy tool that can provide the whole population with prominent, reliable and easy to understand nutrition information to help identify healthier choices and reduce the consumption of foods and beverages high in sodium, sugars and saturated fat."
Continued on pages 4-6
Government of Canada unveils new frontof-package nutrition symbol Nutrition symbol will help Canadians identify foods high in saturated fat, sugars or sodium
"Diabetes Canada applauds the Government of Canada for taking an important step toward promoting healthy eating through the legislation of front-of-package (FOP) labelling on many of the foods and beverages available in the Canadian marketplace. Simple and consistent FOP labelling is an important tool for promoting healthy options when making decisions on what to purchase and consume. Research shows that, done effectively, food and beverage labelling can inform people of what is in their food, thereby helping them identify and choose healthier products." Laura Syron President & CEO, Diabetes Canada Quick Facts •
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Across the country, two in five adults have chronic diseases such as heart disease or type 2 diabetes. Health Canada is targeting saturated fat, sugars and sodium with its new front-ofpackage nutrition labelling regulations because of strong evidence linking their excess consumption to increased risks of chronic disease. It is estimated that a reduction of 400 mg of sodium per day, achieved over a 10-year period, would result in up to 40,000 fewer cases of coronary heart disease and 23,000 fewer cases of stroke annually.
Backgrounder Health Canada is introducing new nutrition labelling regulations for packaged foods requiring a symbol on the front of packages indicating that a food is high in saturated fat, sugars and/or sodium. The regulations will come into effect on January 1, 2026. The new front-of-package (FOP) nutrition symbol includes a magnifying glass, intended to capture people’s attention and act as a quick and
easy visual cue to identify foods high in these three nutrients. The FOP nutrition symbol will complement the Nutrition Facts table, displayed on the back of food packages, to help Canadians make more informed food choices. Saturated fat, sugars and sodium are nutrients of concern; evidence is clear that high intakes of saturated fat, sugars and/or sodium can contribute to various diseases, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity. FOP nutrition labelling is widely recognized by health organizations and the scientific community as an effective tool to help counteract rising rates of dietrelated chronic disease. For example, FOP nutrition labelling has been successful in Chile, where it is estimated that household food purchases contained 37% less sodium and 27% less sugar after the country implemented a similar front-of-package labelling system to the one Canada is implementing. These tools, along with Canada’s food guide, aim to improve the food environment in Canada and ultimately lower the risk of diet-related chronic disease. Foods that will require a FOP nutrition symbol Health Canada will require a FOP nutrition symbol on most, but not all, prepackaged foods that require a Nutrition Facts table. Those that meet or exceed certain levels (i.e., thresholds) for saturated fat, sugars or sodium. The thresholds correspond to a percentage of the daily value (DV) per reference amount or serving size, whichever is greater, for saturated fat, sugars or sodium. The term “reference amount” means the amount of food a person typically consumes in one sitting. The serving size is the quantity of food used to calculate the numbers in the Nutrition Facts table and is based on the reference amount. Foods that will require a FOP nutrition symbol include:
Government of Canada unveils new frontof-package nutrition symbol Nutrition symbol will help Canadians identify foods high in saturated fat, sugars or sodium •
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Such foods could include deli meats, soups, frozen desserts or puddings.
Prepackaged foods with a small reference amount (≤ 30 g or mL) that meet or exceed 10% DV of saturated fat, sugars or sodium o
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Because these foods are typically consumed in smaller amounts and can be concentrated sources of these nutrients, they have a lower threshold. Such foods could include pickles, salad dressing, cookies or breakfast cereals.
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Because foods that are consumed as a main dish can be expected to make up more of your daily intake of nutrients, they have a higher threshold. Such foods could include frozen lasagna, meat pie or pizza.
*170 g for main dishes intended solely for children 1 to 4 years of age Exemptions from the FOP nutrition symbol Health Canada is exempting certain foods from the requirement to display a FOP nutrition symbol. There are three different types of exemptions: Health-related exemptions o
Foods that have a recognized health protection benefit for the
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whole or cut vegetables and fruits that are fresh, frozen, canned or dried;
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2% and whole milk;
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eggs;
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foods with a healthy fat profile, such as vegetable oils, nuts and fatty fish; and
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any combination of these foods. ▪
Prepackaged main dishes with a reference amount of ≥ 200 g* that meet or exceed 30% DV of saturated fat, sugars or sodium o
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whole population or vulnerable sub-populations. This includes:
General prepackaged foods that meet or exceed 15% DV of saturated fat, sugars or sodium
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These foods lose their exemption when they are made with an ingredient that contains saturated fat, sugars and/or sodium.
Foods that are important sources of “shortfall nutrients”, which are nutrients that are not readily available in other foods and that most people in Canada don’t get enough of. For example, many cheeses and yogurts made from dairy products are exempt from requiring a nutrition symbol for naturally occurring (not added) saturated fat and sugars (i.e., lactose) because dairy products are important contributors to the calcium intake of Canadians. Calcium is an essential nutrient that many Canadians do not get enough of, and insufficient calcium is linked to the development of osteoporosis. In addition, many
Government of Canada unveils new frontof-package nutrition symbol Nutrition symbol will help Canadians identify foods high in saturated fat, sugars or sodium cheeses are exempt from requiring a nutrition symbol for sodium since sodium is required in the cheesemaking process. For these products to benefit from an exemption they must contain a specific percentage of the DV for calcium. The ongoing need for this exemption will be reassessed after ten years. o
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Foods that are formulated to meet the needs of specific populations, such as individual rations for military personnel use.
cases these exemptions will be lost, such as if a claim is made, or if anything is added to the meat like salt, saturated fat or even spices. o
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Practical exemptions o
Technical exemptions o
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Foods that do not require a Nutrition Facts table. Examples include raw, single ingredient whole meats, poultry and fish, and foods sold at farmers’ markets. Raw, single ingredient ground meats and poultry. While these products, unlike whole cuts of meat and poultry, have a Nutrition Facts table, they are of similar nutritional value as whole cuts. Requiring a symbol on ground meats and poultry and not on whole cuts of meat may lead people in Canada to erroneously believe that all whole cuts are healthier than ground. In certain
Foods that are not sold directly to consumers and those in very small packages, such as coffee creamers in single-serving cups and mini chocolate bars.
Foods on which the nutrition symbol would be redundant, such as packages of sugar, honey, maple syrup, table and flavoured salt, butter and other fats and oils.
Next steps The food industry has been given until January 1, 2026, to make this change. However, you may start seeing the FOP nutrition symbol earlier. Associated Links •
Backgrounder
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Front-of-package nutrition labelling
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Consultation on proposed front-of-package labelling
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Food labelling coordination policy
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Healthy eating strategy
Manitoba Hydrologic Forecast Centre Released Its 2022 Summer Conditions Report (June 29, 2022 Province of Manitoba News Release)
The Hydrologic Forecast Centre has released its 2022 Summer Conditions Report, Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Doyle Piwniuk announced. “After a very long and unprecedented spring flood season, many Manitobans want to know how all the precipitation we received will impact summer conditions so they can prepare for whatever may come,” said Piwniuk. “The 2022 Summer Conditions Report provides a high-level overview of current basin conditions, the forecast summer precipitation and temperatures, and the expected flows and levels for Manitoba’s major rivers and lakes.” From April 1 to June 19, most of southern Manitoba received near-record precipitation that resulted in a prolonged spring flood period. The report outlined the fourth-largest flood in history was recorded on the Red River, while record flooding was observed on the Winnipeg River system, the Whiteshell lakes and Fisher River. Record flooding was also observed in the Parklands region and along the tributaries of the Red River. Unprecedented rains, on top of very saturated soils, resulted in significant and widespread overland flooding across the province, resulting in multiple road closures and damages to crossing and road infrastructure. The minister noted the Red and Assiniboine rivers are forecast to remain at or above-normal flows throughout the summer and fall until freeze-up. With normal to above-normal levels on the Red and Assiniboine rivers, it is unlikely that water supply for communities along the rivers will be a concern throughout the summer. Flows on the Waterhen, Fairford and Dauphin
rivers will remain near normal throughout the summer. Lake Manitoba, Lake Winnipegosis and Lake St. Martin are expected to be back within their operating ranges this summer, the minister said, adding Lake Winnipeg is expected to remain above the operating range. As most lakes continue to be above normal seasonal levels, the risk of flooding on most major lakes in Manitoba due to wind effects will remain higher than normal throughout the summer. Climate models indicate a potential for normal to wetter-than-normal precipitation for July, August and September, with temperatures forecast to be near normal to warmer than normal for most Manitoba basins. The National Weather Service (NWS) Climate Prediction Center’s outlook indicates below-normal precipitation and near-normal temperature within the U.S. portion of the Red and Souris river basins from July to September. Soil moisture in most Manitoba basins is normal to above normal, with some areas indicating well–above-normal soil moisture conditions. These wet basin conditions will contribute to increased surface run-off if heavy summer precipitation develops, the minister said. The Hydrologic Forecast Centre (HFC) works in collaboration with Environment and Climate Change Canada, the National Weather Service and flood forecasters in neighbouring jurisdictions to regularly monitor basin conditions and provide updates as needed throughout the summer. Manitobans are reminded to check their regular weather apps for the most up-to-date daily forecasts. continued on page 8
Manitoba Hydrologic Forecast Centre Released Its 2022 Summer Conditions Report To read the 2022 Summer Conditions Report, visit www.gov.mb.ca/mit/floodinfo/index.html. For more information on water and flood conditions on rivers and lakes in Manitoba, including wind effect forecasts on major lakes, visit www.gov.mb.ca/mit/floodinfo/index.html.
For information on water levels and flows on waterways contributing to the provincial hydroelectric system and the latest forecast information, visit: https://hydro.mb.ca/corporate/facilities/ water_levels/.
More 2022 Spring Flood Disaster Financial Assistance Virtual Information Webinars Added Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization (EMO) will be offering virtual information webinars on the 2022 Spring Flood Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) program. Those with flood related impacts to their private residence, farm, small business or nonprofit organization are encouraged to attend an information session to learn more about the application, screening, inspection, evaluation and payment process. Self-registration links are as follows:
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Wednesday July 6 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM
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Wednesday July 27 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM
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Webinar for Private Residence, Farms, Small Business and NPO
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Webinar for Municipalities
For more information on Disaster Financial Assistance visit https://www.gov.mb.ca/emo/dfa/index.html
The Disaster Financial Assistance Program and Livestock Losses On May 9, 2022 the Manitoba government announced Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) related to damages to infrastructure, private residences, farms or small businesses due to spring flooding. DFA will also assist with verified livestock losses. The following information has been provided by the provincial government and Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) to help producers as they consider making a claim under the DFA program. •
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DFA will provide assistance to farms that have experienced livestock losses as a result of spring flooding in 2022. To qualify for DFA, your farm must have yearly gross revenues of between $10,000 and $2 million and employ no more than 20 full time workers. It must be an owner-operated business and the owner-operator must be the day-to-day manager. The farm cannot be a hobby farm. In the DFA application form, producers should note the number and types of cattle lost, e.g. calves, fed steers, fed heifers, bulls, etc. Under the DFA program criteria, a veterinary certificate is required to verify that the losses were a direct result of the event. This is non-negotiable. o Note: The cost to obtain the veterinary certificate can be submitted as a DFA eligible cost o For losses that happened some time ago, the producer should contact their veterinarian, explain the situation, and obtain the needed certificate. Manitoba Beef Producers has helped develop a template that vets can use to support the producer’s DFA application and this information is being circulated to them. In the veterinary certificate the cause of loss needs to be attributed to the ‘2022 spring flood’ and the date of loss should be stated. This form is also available on the “DFA for Farm” page on the EMO website under “Step 2: Apply and mandatory documents.” See: https://www.gov.mb.ca/emo/dfa/farm.html Assistance for livestock losses will be calculated as follows: o Is based on the Wildlife Damage Compensation program for predation losses (MASC). See: https://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/fact_sheet_679_wildlife_damage_livestock.html o Will provide a price per pound for livestock losses. The price is based on the Canfax value on the date of loss (www.canfax.ca) o Different types of cattle are priced differently on Canfax, so therefore the farm will need to provide details on the type of livestock that were lost as well as the animal’s weight. o For calf losses, the compensation will provide assistance based on a 500 lb. cow. Producers should also examine the DFA eligibility criteria related to infrastructure damage to determine if there are any other losses for which they may be eligible to seek compensation. You have 90 days from the announcement of a DFA program to submit an application form to Manitoba EMO. The application deadline for the spring 2022 DFA program is August 8, 2022. For complete program details and to download the DFA application form, go to: https://www.gov.mb.ca/emo/dfa/farm.html Frequently asked questions about DFA: https://www.gov.mb.ca/emo/dfa/faq.html To view a video on how to apply for DFA: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0S_STwXlP0 For upcoming program webinars see: https://www.gov.mb.ca/emo/pdfs/2022_dfa_webinars_pr.pdf For other inquiries contact Manitoba’s Emergency Measures organization as follows: o Toll Free: 1-888-267-8298 Fax: (204) 945-4929 Email: dfa@gov.mb.ca
Temporary Lane Reduction on PTH10 (18th Street) in Brandon re: Construction of Daly Overpass (June 29, 2022 Province of Manitoba News Release)
Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure advises that ongoing construction to the Daly Overpass will require Provincial Trunk Highway (PTH) 10 (18th Street) to be reduced to one lane of traffic in each direction from Princess Avenue to Parker Boulevard starting at 6 a.m., Monday, July 4 and continuing until approximately July 18. In addition, vehicles southbound on PTH 10 (18th Street) will not be allowed to turn left (east) on Rosser Avenue. Motorists wanting to turn left are advised to follow a detour route on Princess Avenue, 19th Street and Rosser Avenue. Applicable detour signs will guide traffic. This closure allows for the relocation of utilities and installation of drainage works associated with the new Daly Overpass Canadian Pacific Railway bridges.
The ongoing closure of Pacific Avenue will remain in effect until approximately December 2022. The Daly Overpass project will see the construction of a new four-lane bridge with a separate pedestrian and active transportation bridge. The design will also include new on and off-ramps to connect 18th Street with Pacific Avenue, new pathways, and sidewalk and pavement upgrades. For more information about the Daly Street Overpass project, visit: www.gov.mb.ca/mit/wms/structures/daly _overpass/index.html. Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure will update impacts to traffic through the Manitoba 511 information system at www.manitoba511.ca/en/index.html.
Welcome to the new BEEFRESEARCH.CA With the new BeefResearch.ca, you will find everything you came to expect on our former site:
(June 28, 2022 Beef Cattle Research Council) Today,
the Beef Cattle Research Council rolled out a new, revitalized web design offering more easyto-find content and practical tools for Canada’s beef producers, veterinary teams, researchers and other stakeholders. For almost a decade, the BCRC has delivered science-based industry resources through BeefResearch.ca. In the last year alone, nearly 300,000 individuals consulted the BCRC website for timely and practical beef and forage information. Over the years, with support of Canada’s Beef Science Cluster, BCRC has enhanced its website to include interactive production calculators, videos and hundreds of beef and forage topics and articles. By leveraging producerpaid Canadian Beef Cattle Check-Off dollars and listening to the industry’s needs, the BCRC continually develops practical content to help farmers and ranchers make informed decisions that improve profitability, reduce risks and enhance consumer confidence in Canadian beef production. But, just like a practical old farm truck with a lot of mileage, at some point you need to upgrade if you want to go further down the road or pull a bigger trailer. To drive Canada’s beef research and extension efforts most effectively and economically in the future, we needed an online vehicle that was faster, better organized and more intuitive for our expanding audience.
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timely articles,
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production tools and calculators,
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research summaries and fact sheets,
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webinars,
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videos and other useful resources for Canadian beef industry stakeholders.
Watch this 90-second video for an overview of the new BeefResearch.ca. One of the most significant upgrades to BeefResearch.ca is a greatly improved mobile experience. You can enjoy optimal display from any device while navigating BCRC’s resources through the top-right menu icon in mobile views. The restructured site will help make Canada’s beef and forage research even more accessible and relevant. The new site also features a more robust search function. Enter any beef or forage topic in the upper-right search bar and find out why BeefResearch.ca has been referred to as the search engine for Canadian beef production. Within seconds, you can have any Canadian beef or forage research topic from the past 10 years on your preferred device. Through the reorganized navigation areas, you will find three user-targeted entry points: •
For Producers: where farmers and ranchers can find beef and forage topic pages, research summaries and fact sheets by subject area
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For Researchers: where agricultural researchers can access BCRC’s research priorities, strategies and calls for continued on page 12
Welcome to the new BEEFRESEARCH.CA proposals, plus information on its researcher award and mentorship programs •
For Veterinary Teams: where veterinarians and registered vet technicians can find tools, resources and continuing education credit opportunities
We invite you to take our new wheels for a test drive. Share your questions, comments or ideas with us through the new feedback feature at the bottom of each page. And, check out the latest content on the new
Sign up for the BCRC email list. Be notified about information you want to
BeefResearch.ca: •
NEW Heifer Development page
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NEW Johne’s Disease Testing Calculator
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UPDATED BCRC Water Systems
know, when you want to know it. Do you want to hear from us as soon as any new beef or forage information drops? Or, would you prefer to hit the highlights monthly through The Wire or our monthly blog summaries? Opt in to user-specific lists such as our seasonal tools for vet teams or proposal announcements for researchers.
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NEW Calving Seasons page
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UPDATED Carrying Capacity Calculator
Province Advises of Additional Actions to Help Prevent the Spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (June 28, 2022 Province of Manitoba News Release)
Manitoba Natural Resources and Northern Development is advising of additional management actions to help prevent the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). CWD is an incurable, fatal disease that affects members of the deer family (cervids) including white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, moose and caribou. Animals infected with CWD may appear healthy until the later stages of the disease and while CWD is not known as a human health risk, meat from a CWD-infected animal is not recommended for consumption. CWD was first detected in Manitoba in 2021 in five mule deer along the ManitobaSaskatchewan border. If the disease spreads and becomes endemic to Manitoba, there is a serious risk that CWD will threaten the health of all cervid populations in Manitoba. To help prevent the spread of CWD, the province is expanding the harvested cervid mandatory sample submission zone and establishing a strictly regulated and managed mule deer hunting season in defined areas along the western and southern borders of Manitoba. All hunters in the expanded mandatory sample submission area will be required to provide samples of their harvested white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk and moose for CWD testing.
These samples will allow the province to identify infected animals and determine any spread of the disease within this high-risk CWD zone. If a sample tests positive, hunters will be notified by the province. A map of the expanded mandatory sample zone is available at: https://gov.mb.ca/nrnd/fishwildlife/pubs/maps/expanded_mandatory_surv eillance_zone2.pdf. The province has reached out to communities, stakeholders and Indigenous communities to ensure they are aware of the risks of CWD and are kept up to date with the provincial response. The province appreciates the ongoing co-operation of the public including hunters, producers, Indigenous communities and landowners to ensure this disease is contained or eventually eradicated from the area. Hunters who are active in the area where CWD is a concern should have their harvested animal tested, practise safe carcass-handling protocols and avoid consumption of any animal that has tested positive for CWD. Hunters with concerns or questions about an animal that has been harvested can contact the province by email at CWD@gov.mb.ca or by calling toll-free 1-800-214-6197. For more information, visit https://gov.mb.ca/nrnd/fishwildlife/wildlife/cwd.html.
Advisory Council Launches Public Meetings to Receive Advice (Province of Manitoba News Release) Manitoba's Immigration Advisory Council is launching a series of public meetings to inform its recommendations on improvements to Manitoba’s current immigration policies and programs, co-chairs Advanced Education, Skills and Immigration Minister Jon Reyes and Lloyd Axworthy announced. “As we review the entire continuum of immigration, from promotion to retention of newcomers, we want to hear from others who have experiences and advice they would like to share,” said Reyes. “Meetings will be held in communities across the province to ensure we reach as many people as possible in the next few months to help us better understand what improvements are needed to support people choosing to make Manitoba home.” The council, created earlier this year, has 20 members with expertise related to immigration services, governance, economic development, analysis, project management and community integration. It represents front-line immigration service providers, ethnocultural community leaders and organizations, representatives of Manitoba’s business, industry and academic communities, and has urban, regional and francophone representation. Meetings will be held over the summer including sessions in: •
Brandon at the Victoria Inn, 3550 Victoria Ave., on July 11 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.;
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Neepawa at the Neepawa Public Library, 280 Davidson St., on July 11 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.;
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Winkler at the Best Western Plus, 1705 Diamond Dr., on Aug. 3 from 10:30 a.m. to noon;
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Altona at the Millennium Exhibition Centre, 227-10th Ave. NW, on Aug. 3 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.;
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Steinbach at the Days Inn, 75 Provincial Trunk Highway (PTH) 12 N, on Aug. 3 from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.;
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Winnipeg at the Winnipeg Grand Mosque, 2445 Waverley St., on Aug. 10 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.; and
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Winnipeg at the Maples Community Centre, 424 Adsum Dr., on Aug. 11 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
A bilingual session will also be held in east Winnipeg on July 7. Details about the location and time will be provided in the coming days. "The council brings a great deal of expertise to the table, but we also want to hear from others who can share their ideas with us,” said Axworthy. “The feedback from Manitobans and newcomers to Canada will help our team make informed recommendations to government.” The minister noted the work of the council focuses on: •
building on promotion to attract and recruit more immigrants and business investors to the province;
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streamlining the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program, especially with regard to setting the right balance between the province’s regional labour market, economic development and community needs; and
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fostering Manitoba’s settlement and integration programs and services, as well as foreign credential recognition programs, to encourage labour market attachment, improve foreign credential recognition and bolster immigrant retention.
For more information on the Immigration Advisory Council’s mandate and membership, visit https://immigratemanitoba.com/iac/.
Time to Complete the Next Session of the Agroclimate Impact Reporter for 2022 Growing Season (Information From Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) The Agroclimate Impact Reporter (AIR)
is a tool to help connect Agriculture and AgriFood Canada (AAFC) with people in Canada's agricultural community. AAFC relies on its network of AIR volunteers to provide information regarding agroclimate impacts on farm operations across the country. The AIR network provides valuable and reliable data that are mapped and used in the assessment and development of policies and programs including AgriRecovery and the Livestock Tax Deferral Provision, which can provide assistance to the industry during extreme weather and climate conditions and events. The AIR network is an ever-growing database of agroclimate impacts, which enables better data analysis to help identify trends and anomalies.
English French Click here for previous Agroclimate Impact maps from May or past years. Other resources that AAFC produces are on the Drought Watch home page. Join the Network If you have not already joined the Network, to subscribe to the AIR email list, please send a blank email to aafc.droughtwatchguetterlasecheresse.aac@agr.gc.ca. Other ways to complete the AIR survey: By phone Email aafc.droughtwatchguetterlasecheresse.aac@agr.gc.ca with your contact information and NAIS will call you to complete the report survey over the phone.
AAFC is currently in its third reporting session for the 2022 agricultural season. If you are able to find five to ten minutes to respond to our brief survey about agricultural conditions, it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you to all who contributed to the May 2022 AIR survey!
By email
The surveys are linked below; please considering sharing the links with your colleagues and networks.
https://agriculture.canada.ca/en/agricultureand-environment/drought-watch-andagroclimate/agroclimate-impact-reporter
Download an accessible PDF version of the AIR survey of the survey and email your response to aafc.droughtwatchguetterlasecheresse.aac@agr.gc.ca using the email button at the bottom of the form.
Government of Canada Launches Consultations to Inform the National Agricultural Labour Strategy (June 27, 2022 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada News Release) Canada's agriculture and agri-
food sector is an important engine of economic growth that feeds millions of people in Canada and around the world. It is also part of the country's critical infrastructure, essential to the health and well-being of all Canadians. Today, the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, launched consultations to solicit input and inform a National Agricultural Labour Strategy.
Food and Beverage Manufacturing. The Government of Canada's National Agricultural Labour Strategy is intended to complement these efforts and utilize input directly from industry to achieve solutions. The Government of Canada is committed to taking concrete action in addressing the ongoing labour challenges facing the country's agriculture and agri-food sector and to best position the sector for future growth.
The agriculture and agri-food sector faces obstacles that distinguish it from other economic sectors currently facing labour shortages. As part of the engagement process, an online consultation will open on June 27, 2022 and run until September 28, 2022. This process will seek input on recommendations to address chronic workforce challenges to build short- and long-term solutions that enable the agriculture sector to attract a skilled workforce. Provinces and territories, as well as employers, unions, underrepresented groups, workers, and other key groups will be engaged to develop the strategy and ensure it reflects the unique needs of the sector.
Quotes
A number of areas of focus have been identified, including the use of automation and technology, targeted skills development and training, employment incentives and best practices, improved working conditions and benefits; and programs to recruit and retain workers.
"Canada's agricultural sector feeds millions of people each year, and is a huge driver of our national economy. To ensure it can continue to grow and innovate, we're working with industry partners to build the strong, skilled workforce they need to thrive."
The sector is already demonstrating leadership in tackling these challenges, through initiatives such as the Canadian Agriculture Human Resource Council-led development of a National Workforce Strategic Plan for Agriculture and
"As everyone is looking to Canada to increase its contribution to global food security, our agriculture and agri-food sector is facing a severe labour shortage that prevents it from reaching its full potential. I encourage all stakeholders to take part in these consultations, through which our government wishes to foster the significant engagement of the industry and ensure that together we put in place effective and sustainable solutions." - The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
- The Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion continued on pages 17-18
Government of Canada Launches Consultations to Inform the National Agricultural Labour Strategy "CAHRC is pleased for the launch of these timely consultations on a sector-specific Agricultural Labour Strategy. We look forward to working closely and collaboratively with AAFC and our partners CFA and Food and Beverage Canada on our complimentary initiatives that will go a long way towards finding long-term solutions for a robust, skilled workforce." - Paul Glenn, Chair, Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council Quick facts •
Canada's food system is resilient and innovative, sustains our environment and supports our economy. In 2020, the whole agriculture and agri-food system: o
employed 2.1 million people
o
provided 1 in 9 jobs in Canada
o
in 2021, the sector generated $135 billion of Canada's gross domestic product (GDP)
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In April, the Government of Canada announced further changes to the Temporary Foreign Workers Program to address labour shortages across Canada
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In Canada, temporary foreign workers represented around one-quarter of all agriculture workers in 2021. In the food and beverage manufacturing sector, temporary foreign workers represented about onetenth of the total number of employees.
However, it faces unique labour challenges that hinder the productivity of agricultural and processing operations, result in lost economic potential, and create stress for employers and workers alike. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) is developing a sector-specific strategy to address chronic labour shortages in farming and food processing. Our goal is to develop solutions that consider unique regional and sub-sector concerns. This will better position the sector to address shortterm pressures and advance long-term solutions to help farmers and food processors meet their needs. In recent years, AAFC has received valuable input relating to long-standing labour challenges faced by the agriculture and agri-food sector. This information has been used to inform the department's analysis in preparation for developing an Agricultural Labour Strategy, including possible actions to address these long-standing concerns. Who is the focus of this consultation? The Government of Canada is consulting with the Agriculture and Agri-food sector including employers, farmers, producers, processors, workers, unions, Indigenous communities, women in agriculture, youth, small and emerging sectors as well as other key stakeholders and partners. Key questions for discussion We are seeking feedback on any, or all, of the questions listed below: •
What has your experience been with recruiting and retaining workers in the agricultural and agri-food sector?
Background Information
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Online consultation opened on June 27, 2022 and will close on September 28, 2022
What are the future skills and technology needs of the sector?
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What potential solutions should be explored to help address labour shortages in the sector?
Canada's agricultural sector is an important engine of economic growth and social well-being that feeds millions of people in Canada and around the world.
Government of Canada Launches Consultations to Inform the National Agricultural Labour Strategy Share your ideas online:
Associated links
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via SimpleSurvey (you won't need to sign up for an account)
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Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Mandate Letter
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by email: aafc.AGLS-SMAG.aac@agr.gc.ca
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via social media, follow us on Twitter @AAFC_Canada, and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Facebook to learn more.
Canadian Agriculture Human Resource Council: National Workforce Strategy for Agriculture and Food and Beverage Manufacturing being developed
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Statistics Canada: 2021 Census of Agriculture
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Step up to the Plate
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Government of Canada announces Workforce Solutions Road Map – further changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program to address labour shortages across Canada
Related information •
Backgrounder: Temporary Foreign Worker Program Workforce Solutions Road Map
Contact us Email: aafc.AGLS-SMAG.aac@agr.gc.ca
Government of Canada maintains current border measures for travellers entering Canada (June 29, 2022 Public Health Agency of Canada News Release) To help keep people in Canada
safe, the Government of Canada put in place border measures to reduce the risk of the importation and transmission of COVID-19 and new variants in Canada related to international travel. The Government of Canada announced it is extending current border measures for travellers entering Canada. Requirements for travellers arriving to Canada are expected to remain in effect until at least September 30, 2022. In addition, the pause of mandatory random testing will continue at all airports until midJuly, for travellers who qualify as fully vaccinated. The pause was put in place on June 11, 2022, and is allowing airports to focus on streamlining their operations, while the Government of Canada moves forward with its planned move of COVID-19 testing for air travellers outside of airports to select test provider stores, pharmacies, or by virtual appointment. Mandatory random testing continues at land border points of entry, with no changes. Travellers who do not qualify as fully vaccinated, unless exempt, will continue to test on Day 1 and Day 8 of their 14-day quarantine. Moving testing outside of airports will allow Canada to adjust to increased traveller volumes while still being able to monitor and quickly respond to new variants of concern, or changes to the epidemiological situation. Border testing
is an important tool in Canada’s detection and surveillance of COVID-19 and has been essential in helping us slow the spread of the virus. Data from the testing program are used to understand the current level and trends of importation of COVID-19 into Canada. Border testing also allows for the detection and identification of new COVID-19 variants of concern that could pose a significant risk to the health and safety of Canadians. In addition, this data has and continues to inform the Government of Canada’s safe easing of border measures. All travellers must continue to use ArriveCAN (free mobile app or website) to provide mandatory travel information within 72 hours before their arrival in Canada, and/or before boarding a cruise ship destined for Canada, with few exceptions. Additional efforts are being undertaken to enhance compliance with ArriveCAN, which is already over 95% for travellers arriving by land and air combined. Associated links •
COVID-19: Travel, testing and borders
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COVID-19: Vaccinated travellers entering Canada
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ArriveCAN
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COVID-19: Boarding flights and trains in Canada
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Summary data about travellers, testing and compliance
What Qualifies AgriRecovery Livestock Transportation Drought Assistance Helps livestock producers offset freight expenses associated with moving their eligible breeding herd to alternate feeding locations due to shortages of feed.
Primary Producers
Breeding Animals
• Owned or leased the eligible breeding animals between June 1, 2021 and March 15, 2022 or later
• Mature females exposed to breeding (natural service or artificial insemination)
• Have a minimum of 10 eligible breeding animals (per type of livestock)
• Males used previously for breeding
Eligible Breeding Animals • Beef cattle • Sheep • Goats
• Immature replacement females are not eligible
Eligible Alternate Feeding Locations • Farms, custom feeders and other livestock operations where breeding animals must be relocated to address a shortfall in winter feed capacity
• Movement to a normal wintering site is not eligible
• Locations are not owned, leased or rented by the eligible producers
• Animals cannot be sold or marketed prior to returning to the location of origin when temporary feeding is complete
• Must be capable of housing and providing adequate feed, water and care
• Animals must remain in the new location for at least 30 days
Eligible Distance • Minimum distance of 40 kilometres to a maximum one-way distance of 1,000 kilometres
Contact • 1-844-769-6224
• manitoba.ca/agriculture
Date of Eligible Expenses • Incurred from August 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022
• ARD@gov.mb.ca
How to Apply for Livestock Transportation Drought Assistance Six Steps for Application
STEP 1
Application deadline:
July 30, 2022 for Livestock Transportation Drought Assistance
Application form and program guide Complete the form as instructed, declare that you meet all the program terms and conditions, and that the information you provide is complete and accurate. The terms and conditions are outlined in the AgriRecovery Drought Assistance for Farmers Program Guidebook. You can access the application form and the program guide by: downloading them at manitoba.ca/agriculture
In-person at your nearest Service Centre (see reverse for locations)
STEP 2
Declaration of eligible breeding animals
STEP 3
Self-haul declaration
STEP 4
calling 1-844-769-6224 to have a copy mailed to you
Extraordinary Expense Declaration
• Complete a Declaration with your first application • Declare the number of eligible breeding animals that will be maintained and overwintered
• Contact the program administrator (email: agaction@gov.mb.ca) if the number of eligible animals changes over time.
If you self-haul feed or livestock, complete the self-haul declaration form and provide invoices for feed purchases or accessing feed as outlined in the guidebook.
If you have extraordinary expenses for renting pasture or cropland, temporary fencing, hauling or pumping water, harvesting feed, or transporting self-produced feed, complete the one-time declaration as outlined in the guidebook.
Note: If your application is successful, you will receive a notification letter and cheque in the mail from the Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC).
STEP 5
Prepare your application After completing the necessary documents, check the boxes for all declarations on the forms. Ensure that you have included everything needed in your submission:
STEP 6
application form invoices for each feed and/or transportation purchase proof of payment for each invoice (e.g., cleared cheques, bank statement, credit or debit card receipt)
eligible breeding animal declaration (first application only) self-haul declaration (only if you self-hauled feed or livestock) declaration of extraordinary expenses (only one submission allowed)
Submit your application Email documents in step 5 to: agaction@gov.mb.ca
or mail to: Manitoba Agriculture AgriRecovery Drought Assistance 903-401 York Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3C 0P8
Service Centre Contact Information Arborg Box 2000, 317 River Road Arborg MB R0C 0A0 1-833-206-0451 1-833-478-1304 arborg@masc.mb.ca
Headingley 1-5290 Monterey Road Headingley MB R4H 1J9 1-833-206-0465 1-833-478-1307 headingley@masc.mb.ca
Portage la Prairie Unit 400, 50-24th Street NW Portage la Prairie MB R1N 3V7 1-833-206-0470 1-833-478-1312 portagelaprairie@masc.mb.ca
Brandon Unit 100 - 1525 1st Street S Brandon MB R7A 7A1 1-833-206-0455 1-833-478-1305 brandon@masc.mb.ca
Killarney Box 190, 203 South Railway Street Killarney MB R0K 1G0 1-833-206-0466 1-833-478-1309 killarney@masc.mb.ca
Steinbach Unit C – 284 Reimer Avenue Steinbach MB R5G 0R5 1-833-206-0480 1-833-467-1059 steinbach@masc.mb.ca
Dauphin Room 209, 27-2nd Avenue SW Dauphin MB R7N 3E5 1-833-206-0459 1-833-478-1306 dauphin@masc.mb.ca
Morden 536 Stephen Street Morden MB R6M 1T7 1-833-206-0479 1-833-467-1056 morden@masc.mb.ca
Swan River Box 1108, 120-6th Avenue N Swan River MB R0L 1Z0 1-833-206-0476 1-833-478-1315 swanriver@masc.mb.ca
Neepawa Box 1179, 41 Main Street E Neepawa MB R0J 1H0 1-833-206-0469 1-833-478-1310 neepawa@masc.mb.ca