List of Recommendations 

Recommendation 1: We recommend that the Government of Canada implement the 2022 National Supply Chain Task Force recommendations, including: 

1. Make the current 18-month extended interswitching rail service pilot permanent, make it available nationally and increase the distance from 160km to 500km; 

2. Invest to remove pressure points and increase capacity and fluidity, especially at ports, particularly the North Shore rail bridge and tunnel in Vancouver; 

3. Give the Canadian Transportation Agency the mandate to ensure balanced negotiating powers between shippers and railways; and, 

4. Give grain farmers and shippers the ability to apply meaningful reciprocal penalties when railways do not deliver rail cars on time. 

Recommendation 2: We recommend that the Government of Canada create regulations and policies that allow for Canada to be a world leader in grain innovation, including: 

1. Canada should set a target to be the largest investor (public and private combined) in grain-related research per GDP. This requires increased public investment in grain R&D to ‘catch up’ from years of dilution and underinvestment, and to address regulatory irritants and hurdles, to attract a much higher share of global grain R&D from private firms. 

2. Gene-editing will revolutionize plant breeding and bring more sustainable varieties to farmers faster. CFIA must publish the final guidance on plant breeding innovations, as soon as possible, to secure investments in R&D and to ensure that farmers have access to the new varieties, when they are available around the world; and, 

3. Pesticide approvals must be based on science and risk-based decision-making. Real world observations must be given priority over modelling. Agronomic factors (e.g., disease pressures, alternatives, etc.) need to be reflected in decision making. 

July 27th, 2023 (Ottawa, ON) – Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) welcomes the appointment of the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay as the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. With the transition of the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau to the National Revenue portfolio, MacAulay takes on the role once again, having previously served as the Minister of Veterans Affairs for five years.

MacAulay’s return to the agriculture portfolio brings with it a sense of familiarity and a strong foundation of experience. During his previous tenure, GGC established a close working relationship with the Minister, characterized by open dialogue and collaboration. According to Andre Harpe, Chair of GGC, “The Minister’s open-door policy and willingness to engage in partnership were instrumental in maximizing the potential of our sector. Such collaboration is vital to ensuring the growth and prosperity of Canada’s grain farmers.”

GGC eagerly anticipates collaborating with Minister MacAulay on various critical issues, including innovation, transportation system reliability, and particularly sustainability. These issues play a pivotal role in unlocking the grain sector’s full potential and meeting Canada’s net-zero goals. In this regard, GGC looks forward to engaging with Minister MacAulay on our “Road to 2050” climate solution initiative, aimed at developing practical and proactive approaches to tackling climate change.

Harpe also extends sincere gratitude to Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau, acknowledging her significant contributions during her tenure as Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “Over the last five years, GGC has developed a positive relationship with Minister Bibeau. Her legacy is apparent in many aspects of the portfolio, most notably sustainability. We want to express our appreciation for the Minister and look forward to working with her in her new role.”

Canadian Agriculture holds immense potential for both economic and environmental growth. GGC is committed to working with Minister MacAulay and the new cabinet to position Canada’s grain farmers for success.

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For more information, contact:

Hayley Stacey
Communications Lead
P: 204-804-3333
E: media@ggc-pgc.ca

July 18, 2023 (Ottawa, ON) – The Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) are pleased to welcome Kyle Larkin as its Executive Director. Larkin brings extensive advocacy, political and association experience to the organization and is poised to elevate the discussion around relevant policy issues at a national level.

GGC believes Larkin is the ideal leader to navigate the shifting political and regulatory climate. His appointment comes at a critical juncture, as the Canadian grains sector faces a rapidly evolving political and regulatory landscape.

“Kyle is the right person to help us seize these opportunities,” says Andre Harpe, GGC Chair. “His track record of driving impactful results, as well as his impressive experience in politics and strategic direction, will further strengthen GGC’s position as a leader in the industry.”

With a decade-long background in government relations, public relations and politics, Larkin has consistently achieved impressive results. His expertise lies in developing and executing public affairs strategies for national and provincial organizations. Throughout his career, Larkin has earned recognition from media publications such as The Globe and Mail, National Post, CBC, BBC and The Hill Times. Additionally, he has been honoured with the 2019 Government Relations Campaign of the Year by the Canadian Public Relations Society and the 2022 Canadian Society of Association Executives Award of Distinction for his work advancing climate change objectives.

“I am honoured to build on GGC’s legacy of leadership in Canada’s grain sector. Together with our members across the country, I look forward to advocating for the priorities of grain farmers and further unlocking the sector’s full potential,” states Larkin. “As the collective voice of over 65,000-grain farmers, my focus is expanding our presence on Parliament Hill, growing our national membership and enhancing our responsiveness to current and emerging issues.”

Prior to joining the GGC, Larkin served as Vice-President at Impact Public Affairs, a national full-service public affairs firm. Prior to this, he held key positions in various offices on Parliament Hill, including with the Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister.

Larkin’s arrival marks an exciting transition for GGC, as he replaces interim Executive Director Tyler Bjornson. GGC extends its gratitude to Bjornson for his valuable contributions during his time with the organization.

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For more information, contact:

Hayley Stacey
Communications Lead
P: 204-804-3333
E: media@ggc-pgc.ca

May 3, 2023 (Ottawa, ON) – The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has released its updated guidance on plant breeding innovation, marking the conclusion of a consultation process that began in 2021. This move has been welcomed by Canadian grain farmers, who believe innovative plant breeding techniques such as gene editing are essential to ensuring a sustainable future for agriculture.

“The CFIA’s updated guidance on plant breeding innovation is a step in the right direction,” says Andre Harpe, Chair of Grain Growers of Canada. “It will help us keep pace with global competitors who have already embraced science-based policies to improve crop yields and quality. This is especially important as we face new challenges posed by climate change and other environmental pressures.”

Alongside the CFIA’s updated guidance, Canadian seed and grain organizations have moved forward with best-in-class transparency tools, ensuring Canadian farmers can verify if their seed was developed using gene editing and provide this information along the value chain as needed. This is critical to maintaining market choice in the Canadian grain sector and ensuring consumers can access the highest quality products.

Farmers across Canada have been eagerly awaiting this news, as gene editing offers the potential to produce crops that are more resilient to pests and disease and require less water and fertilizer. These benefits will help Canadian farmers increase their productivity while reducing their environmental footprint.

“The government plays a vital role in enabling innovation and ensuring that farmers have access to the best plant varieties and crop inputs,” says William Van Tassel, Vice Chair of GGC and Chair of the sustainability committee. “Access to innovation and market options are vital to meet our long-term sustainability needs and goals. We urge the government to continue to defend these tools as safe and essential to achieving emission reduction and sustainability goals.”

With the release of CFIA’s updated guidelines, Canadian farmers are well-positioned to lead the way in sustainable crop production, contributing to the country’s economic growth.

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For more information, contact:

Hayley Stacey
Communications Lead
P: 204-804-3333
E: media@ggc-pgc.ca

The Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) is searching for its next Executive Director to represent the interests of grain farmers from across the country with the federal government. As the national voice for Canadian grain farmers, our membership comprises fourteen national, provincial and regional organizations representing over 65,000 grain farmers coast to coast. Located in Ottawa, Ontario, our successful candidate will be at the forefront of a dynamic organization that has built a track record of providing some of the most influential advice to government in the agriculture sector. This important role is a unique and exciting career opportunity for a highly motivated professional who is looking for a leadership position. For a complete picture of the objectives and duties, as well as the attributes we are seeking in our next Executive Director, please refer to the enclosed job description.

Applications must be received by May 5, 2023. Interested individuals may apply by email with their resume and a cover letter to: hr@ggc-pgc.ca. Please include your name and “Executive Director Application” in the subject line.

Questions or further enquiries may be directed to Tyler Bjornson at tyler@bjornsonassociates.com. Thank you to all candidates for your interest. Please note that only individuals selected for further consideration will receive a response.

April 18, 2023 (Ottawa, ON) – The Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) bids farewell to Erin Gowriluk, its executive director, as she moves on to become the president of the Canada Grain Council. Tyler Bjornson & Associates will provide interim leadership effective April 17 while the organization searches for a new executive director.

During her five-year tenure, Gowriluk has been a leading voice on critical issues facing Canadian grain farmers.

“It has been an absolute privilege to work alongside such passionate and dedicated individuals who have an unwavering commitment to advancing the interests of Canadian grain farmers,” she said.

“I want to express my sincere thanks to the GGC board of directors, staff and members for their steadfast support throughout my tenure. I look forward to following their progress and seeing the organization reach new heights.”

GGC chair Andre Harpe thanked Gowriluk for her dedicated service to the organization.

“Erin has been a tireless advocate for Canadian grain farmers, and her leadership has been instrumental in advancing the interests of our members,” he said. “We wish her all the best in her new role.”

Harpe also expressed his confidence in Bjornson’s ability to ensure a seamless transition.

“Tyler and his team have a proven track record of providing strong leadership during transition periods, and we are confident in their ability to continue advancing the interests of our members,” he said.

GGC has established a hiring committee to lead the process of finding a new Executive Director, which includes the GGC executive and two additional directors. A job posting and call for interested applications will be published on the GGC website and other social media in the coming days.

GGC is committed to supporting Canadian grain farmers and looks forward to continuing its work on their behalf.

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For more information, contact:

Hayley Stacey
Communications Lead
P: 204-804-3333
E: media@ggc-pgc.ca

March 28, 2022 (Ottawa, ON) – To mark the start of National Grain Week, the Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) urges all political parties to support Bill C-234, an amendment to the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act. This amendment seeks to extend the exemption for qualifying farming fuel to marketable natural gas and propane, which would fuel innovation and benefit Canadian farmers.

“As we gather in Ottawa for National Grain Week, we’re reminded of the crucial role that Canadian farmers play in feeding our country and the world,” said Andre Harpe, GGC chair. 

“By extending the exemption for qualifying farming fuels to natural gas and propane, this amendment will unlock innovation and drive sustainable growth in the sector. We urge all political parties to support this important legislation and demonstrate their commitment to the needs of Canadian farmers.”

Farmers incur a carbon price when using natural gas and propane for necessary farming practices such as grain drying, land irrigation, and heating or cooling their barns. As there are no viable alternatives, pricing these activities does not provide a signal to lower emissions from these sources. Bill C-234 will allow farmers to invest in practices that drive innovation and new efficiencies that reduce fuel usage by putting money back in their hands.

“C-234 is a cornerstone of our work this week,” Harpe said. “Unlocking innovation is key to achieving sustainability in agriculture. Carbon surcharges on necessary farm activities only add to the financial strain and divert capital away from critical investments.”

During National Grain Week, GGC members from across the country gather in Ottawa to share their diverse experiences and perspectives with parliamentarians. GGC is bringing together farmer members, parliamentarians and legislators to discuss and promote policies that align with the federal government’s goals and the sector’s unique needs and opportunities.

For more information on Bill C-234, visit agcarbonalliance.ca/vote-for-bill-c-234/.

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For more information, contact:

Hayley Stacey
Communications Lead
P: 204-804-3333
E: media@ggc-pgc.ca

March 6th, 2023 (Ottawa, ON) – The Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) are pleased to welcome CropLife Canada as an industry partner on their ‘Road to 2050’ climate-solution initiative.

“Canadian farmers are global leaders in sustainability,” says Pierre Petelle, president and CEO of CropLife Canada. “From seed technology to the pest control tools that protect crops, the plant science industry is committed to providing solutions that support Canadian farmers as they work to address the global challenges of food security, climate change and sustainability.”

CropLife Canada represents the manufacturers, developers and distributors of pest control and modern plant breeding products. By prioritizing science and innovation, CropLife Canada’s members provide farmers with tools to sustainably increase production.

“Advancements in plant science are the backbone of innovation and growth,” says GGC Chair Andre Harpe. “Farmers have always known that productivity and sustainability must go hand in hand. The plant science industry is a leader in sustainable intensification, and CropLife Canada’s insights will be invaluable as we develop our ‘Road to 2050’ recommendations.” 

CropLife Canada advocates for a science-based regulatory environment that enables innovation in Canada. Canadian farmers have long been early adopters of new technologies, including plant science innovations, which has made them global leaders in sustainable production.  

“Enabling innovation will help us advance food production, food security, Canada’s economic growth and environmental stewardship,” says Petelle. “Canada’s agriculture sector is a solutions provider and is ready to help the Government of Canada deliver on its ambitious economic and environmental commitments.”

The ‘Road to 2050’ will focus on innovation, research and beneficial management practices, representing a practical and proactive approach to tackling climate change. Recommendations will guide government policies and programming directed at Canada’s grains sector.

“We are leveraging the experience and expertise of our industry partners and advisory council to develop climate solutions that unleash the grain sector’s full potential,” says Harpe. “CropLife Canada brings a wealth of knowledge to the table and will be a valuable voice on the ‘Road to 2050.’”

Previously announced industry partners include Corteva Agriscience, Fertilizer Canada and Cereals Canada. GGC continues to announce industry partnerships and looks forward to releasing its ‘Road to 2050’ roadmap in spring 2023.

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For more information, contact:

Hayley Stacey
Communications Lead
P: 204-804-3333
E: media@ggc-pgc.ca

November 15th, 2022 (Ottawa, ON) – On news that Bill C-234, an Act to Amend the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act, passed the Agriculture and Agri-Food committee yesterday, the Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) would like to commend the cross-party work of the Committee and urge all Members of Parliament to pass this legislation as it returns to the house for third and final reading. 

“With the threat of global food insecurity looming, we must champion food security, affordability and accessibility,” says GGC Chair Andre Harpe from his farm in Alberta’s Peace Country. “Canadian farmers need practical on-farm policy that aligns sustainability and competitiveness. It’s encouraging to see support come from across-party lines, but now is the time for all parties to come together and support Bill C-234.” 

Farmers pay a carbon price for utilizing natural gas and propane for necessary farming practices, like grain drying, irrigating their land, and heating or cooling their barns. With no viable fuel alternatives, pricing these activities does not provide a signal to lower emissions from these sources. Bill C-234 will put money back into the hands of farmers so that they can continue to invest in practices that drive innovation, further efficiencies and reduce fuel usage.  

Sponsored by MP Ben Lobb (Huron-Bruce), the proposed legislation builds on Bill C-206, An Act to amend the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act and S-215, An Act to amend the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act. Bill C-234 will amend the federal government’s carbon pricing legislation to provide an exemption from the carbon tax for natural gas and propane used on-farm for grain drying, irrigation, heating, and cooling barns. GGC applauds Ben Lobb for bringing this legislation forward and thanks the Agriculture and Agri-Food committee for their work reviewing the Bill.

“If we want to improve agriculture’s overall sustainability, we need to allow farmers to reach their full potential,” adds Harpe. “We understand the need to hasten the adoption of technologies and practices that could reduce emissions. Investments in innovation can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars; With rising input costs, inflation and supply chain shortages, carbon surcharges on necessary farm activities adds an additional burden and pulls capital away from critical investments.”

GGC continues to engage with government partners, farm organizations and industry across Canada to develop and promote policy that aligns the federal government’s goals with the unique needs and opportunities of the sector. As such, GGC looks forward to advocating for Bill C-234 throughout the legislative process.

For more information, contact:

Hayley Stacey
Communications Coordinator
P: 204-804-3333
E: media@ggc-pgc.ca