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Agriculture Roundup for Tuesday December 14, 2021

Dec 14, 2021 | 10:10 AM

MELFORT, Sask. — The Canadian Grain Commission (CGC) is proposing a change to the grain grading dispute resolution process.

The commission wants to extend the time frame producers can exercise their right to dispute a primary elevator’s grade and dockage assessment.

If a producer disagrees with a primary elevator’s assessment of their grain, they have the right under the Canada Grain Act to request that a sample be sent to the commission for a decision on grade and dockage.

The proposed amendment would clarify that a producer is able to dispute the grade and dockage assessment even if they are not present at the time of delivery.

Chief commissioner Doug Chorney said CGC is moving quickly to respond to grain sector feedback and make improvements for producers within current legislation.

“We look forward to engaging with our stakeholders across the grain sector to make sure ‘Subject to Inspector’s Grade and Dockage’ keeps pace with the changing realities of grain handling and delivery in Canada,” he said.

The public consultation period is open until the end of February.

Alberta Barley is seeking input from its membership on amalgamation.

Alberta Barley vice-char Roy Newman said a resolution passed for a farmer plebiscite on amalgamating with the Alberta Wheat Commission. For the past six months the commissions have been conducting farmer consultations.

“Exploring the concept of amalgamation has been a large focus for both boards this year. We have fully capitalized on efficiencies and cost savings by sharing staff and there are even more savings to be realized. The commissions have consulted both memberships and have seen wide-spread support for progressing to the next step,” Newman said.

Alberta Barley must submit a request for a farmer plebiscite from the Alberta Agricultural Marketing Council. Alberta Wheat must also pass the same resolution at their annual meeting in January.

The new executive was announced at the Alberta Barley annual general meeting in conjunction with the Prairie Cereals Summit.

Tara Sawyer, of Acme, Alta., is returning as the chair of Alberta Barley.

alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com

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