Cow and new calf -- LNN

By Dori Modney

Beef Producers and agriculture organizations closely watching for pandemic issues

Mar 20, 2020 | 3:24 PM

CALGARY, AB. — As changes unfold, Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) continue working closely with the the Canadian Cattlemen’s association and the government of Canada, to safeguard stable labour markets and beef production during the global COVID-19 pandemic.

Kelly Smith-Fraser with ABP, says as it’s a fluid situation, the industry is in continual contact with government, to provide recommendations on behalf of producers.

“There have been no fundamental changes to the export and import of food and livestock, outside of the increased precautions recommended by the government, and no specific requirements have been put in place restricting bovine or meat importation and exportation, related to the COVID-19 outbreak.”

It’s noted that there have not been any reports of livestock being infected with COVID-19 anywhere. However, Smith-Fraser says producers are encouraged to follow normal bio-security measures and limit visitors on farm.

“Since Alberta has declared a state of emergency and all events over 50 people are cancelled, we recommend that producers stay up-to-date with information supplied by federal and provincial governments.”

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Producers with any questions or concerns, can contact Alberta Beef Producers. The organization is sending out regular updates and producers can subscribe to our email at www.albertabeef.orgproducersnewsletter

On another issue, the Canadian Federation of Agriculture is worried the COVID-19 pandemic will lead to a shortage of farm workers.

President Mary Robinson says more must be done to ensure producers have access to predictable and timely farm labour for the upcoming planting season.

“Agriculture Canada has created a group of industry leaders to look at how it is affecting the food supply chain. “Given the importance of a stable food production and distribution system throughout the pandemic, the federation will ask Ottawa to make it the highest priority next to controlling and treating COVID-19.”

The federation will ask the government to ensure farmers have access to temporary foreign workers.

Robinson says the C-F-A will be circulating a survey to identify any potential issues farmers may face in regards to the pandemic and convey these issues to Agriculture Canada.