Province applies to designate “entire food supply chain” as an “essential service”

Dreeshen says they are working with farmers to ensure there is as little red tape impeding their abilities to grow food.

Support will be given to food processors as needed, including for production capacity and for personal protective equipment.

Although blockades earlier this year had significantly hampered the ability of rail companies to deliver products across the country, Dreeshen says that has mostly been resolved. He was told by CN Rail that they have the capacity to address the sudden spike in demand for household goods.

Truck drivers are exempt from Ottawa’s new requirements that anyone crossing the Canada-U.S. border will be forced into a mandatory 14-day self-isolation. The Minister argued that, otherwise, it would make moving goods internationally almost impossible.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had its effects on peoples’ abilities to get the items they need.

Dreeshen spoke out against panic buying and hoarding.

“Do not hoard food and daily essentials. The system is intact and people should be mindful of irrational panic buying and the effect it has on their neighbours. Alberta’s food supply is and will continue to be secure, and we need to be able to make sure everyone can access the essentials they need.”

Food banks have seen a massive increase in demand in recent weeks. However, Dreeshen said donations have dropped dramatically at many locations as Albertans struggle to make ends meet.

He says the government is considering steps to ensure food banks can meet their short, medium, and long-term needs.

Major grocery retailers have seen sales jump as much as 50 per cent, especially for products will long shelf lives and fresh meat.

by David Opinko

Province applies to designate “entire food supply chain” as an “essential service”

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