April 1, 2013 marks the day that the new agriculture policy framework, Growing Forward 2 comes into effect for Canada’s farming sector.  The new agreement was signed by the provincial agriculture ministers and federal Minister of Agriculture Gerry Ritz this past September and will serve as the base for agriculture programs for the next five years.

Instead of a “one size fits all” mentality, the new framework will allow different regions and provinces the flexibility to adapt programs to best suit their farmers.  In addition, three new programs have been announced under Growing Forward 2 and will also come into effect on April 1.  The new programs will focus on strategic initiatives in innovation, competitiveness and market development to further strengthen the agriculture sector's capacity to grow and prosper.

• The AgriInnovation Program will focus on investments to expand the sector's capacity to develop and commercialize new products and technologies.
• The AgriMarketing Program will help industry improve its capacity to adopt assurance systems, such as food safety and traceability, to meet consumer and market demands. It will also support industry in maintaining and seizing new markets for their products through branding and promotional activities.
• The AgriCompetitiveness Program will target investments to help strengthen the agriculture and agri-food industry's capacity to adapt and be profitable in domestic and global markets.

Growing Forward 2 represents a $3 billion investment over five years in strategic initiatives for innovation, competitiveness and market development.

In addition, the federal and provincial governments will continue to offer a full and comprehensive suite of Business Risk Management (BRM) programs to help farmers weather severe market volatility and disasters.  Modifications made to AgriStability and AgriInvest in Growing Forward 2 will ensure that Canadian producers continue to have access to a strong and effective suite of BRM programs. AgriInsurance (crop insurance), AgriRecovery, and the Advanced Payment Program will continue to help farmers manage production risks and provide cash flow assistance.

Our government remains committed to keeping the Canadian economy on the right track, and that includes an agriculture industry that sees growth, creates jobs and has long-term prosperity.

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The audio version of Garry's Jan. 14, 2013 op-ed column can be heard by clicking here