Statement made on 22 March 2011 by Senator Catherine Callbeck
Hon. Catherine S. Callbeck:
Honourable senators, my question is to the Leader of the Government in the Senate.
In the Main Estimates for the coming fiscal year, the government is cutting funding for Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada by about $150 million in agricultural research and science and innovation. The dollar figures have been cut from $404 million to $252 million.
This research is essential to have a safe and sufficient food system. Yesterday, Ron Bonnett, President of the Canadian Federation of Agriculture, said:
Given the global environmental and economic challenges and increased market volatility, now is not the time to make cuts in areas needed to stimulate growth and ensure a sustainable competitive agricultural sector.
My question is this: Why did the government cut funding to agricultural research in the Main Estimates?
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