Wildlife Damage Compensation Program Finally Here!
Fredericton, January 27, 2014 – At its eighth Annual General Meeting of the Agricultural Alliance of New Brunswick, on January 23rd and 24th, 2014, delegates and guests gathered in great numbers to review the Agricultural Alliance 2013 accomplishments and identify future challenges facing New Brunswick agriculture.
“2013 has been another very successful year for the Alliance; we safeguarded our industry on multiple fronts and delivered on key policies and programs. It is however very clear that much more needs to be done in order to place New Brunswick producers in a more competitive and sustainable position”, indicated Jennifer MacDonald, Alliance President.
President MacDonald noted in particular the announcement of the Wildlife Damage Compensation Program, by Premier Alward who addressed the meeting, as one of the great accomplishments. Premier Alward announced that the provincial government will increase flexibility usage for farm plated registered vehicles by allowing producers to transport othersproducers products as currently allowed in some provinces.
Hon. Claude Williams, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure announced the continuation of the Rural Road Enhancement Pilot Project for an additional year. Minister Williams expressed his commitment to continue working in partnership with the Alliance on transportation issues affecting the agricultural industry. “We are pleased that our provincial government recognizes the contribution that the agricultural industry towards the economy and in our rural communities” said MacDonald.
To bring agriculture land-use policy and land preservation as two industry priorities frontward to the provincial government, a land-use panel composed of Karen Neville, Planning Director from the Regional Service Commission 8 and three agricultural producers; Marteen VanOord, Frank Jopp and Robert Thériault was held.
Delegates also discussed and approved a number of resolutions that give direction to the Board on issues and challenges the Alliance should address in the year ahead. Foremost among these were:
- Press the NB government to expand the eligibility criteria for cooperatives to receive the same investment tax credits as corporations;
- Press the NB government to provide consistency for farm solid waste services throughout the province;
- To continue efforts to press the NB government to improve forestry management and practices to assess the best land-use before clear cut and land scarification;
- Work with the NB government to that any natural gas exploration and development undertaking in the province fully protects groundwater quality and supply;
Brenda Schoepp, coach and mentor, provided advices to mentor family members and others around in our everyday lives and inspire us to improve our relationships.
Humphrey Bannack, Vice-President of the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA), presented an overview of the work the CFA is undertaking at the national and international level on behalf of all Canadian farmers.
We had update from several of our industry partners, Dr. Christiane Deslauriers, AAFC and Faith Matchett, FCC are an example.
A number of producers and individuals were recognized for their contribution to New Brunswick Agriculture.
– Gérard Thébeau was presented with the James Robb Award in recognition of his untiring commitment towards agricultural producers
– Paul Levesque was presented with the Innovation Award
– Andrew Lovell was presented with the New Entrant Award
– Marteen VanOord was presented with the Ambassador Award for his long term support and commitment to the Alliance, and the agricultural industry.
Jennifer MacDonald was elected for a third term as President of the Alliance. Also on the Alliance Executive:
– Samuel Bourgeois, First Vice-President
– Mike Bouma Second Vice-President
– Eric Walker, Secretary; and
– Mike Slocum, Treasurer.
–
The list of Directors is enclosed.
For more Information, contact:
Jennifer MacDonald, President Agricultural Alliance of New Brunswick at: (506) 452-8101
Josee Albert, CEO, Agricultural Alliance of New Brunswick at: (506) 452-8101