March 4/22 MBP E-Newsletter

E-Newsletter dsfsfa An update from MBP March 4, 2022

mbbeef.ca

Statistics Canada Releases Livestock Estimates as of January 1, 2022, Other Industry Statistics •

On February 28th Statistics Canada released its livestock estimates as of January 1, 2022, which covers off cattle, sheep and hog inventories as of that day. The following are highlights from that report related to the cattle sector.

From the National Perspective •

To read the report in its entirety and to see more detailed statistics, go to: https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/dailyquotidien/220228/dq220228d-eng.htm?CMP=mstatcan From the Manitoba perspective •

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The number of head of cattle on beef operations in Manitoba as of January 1, 2022 was 843,900 compared to 982,300 on January 1, 2018, a decline of 138,400 head.

The number of head on cow-calf operations as of January 1, 2022 was 641,100 compared to 792,600 on January 1, 2018, a decline of 151,500 head.

The number of head on feeder and stocker operations as of January 1, 2022 was 132,800 compared to 134,700 on January 1, 2018, a decline of 1,900 head, but down 17,100 from the five-year high set on January 1, 2020.

The number of head on feeding operations as of January 1, 2022 was 70,000 compared to 55,000 on January 1, 2018, an increase of 15,000 head.

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The Canadian livestock sector continued to navigate challenges in the latter half of 2021. In Western Canada, extreme weather events—ranging from record heat and drought conditions to severe flooding events—limited forage, increased feed costs and disrupted transportation routes. Throughout the country, ongoing labour issues, as well as enhanced public health measures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, slowed supply chains and the processing sector.

On January 1, 2022, Canadian hog and sheep inventories were up, while cattle inventories were down, compared with the same date a year earlier.

The Canadian cattle herd fell to the lowest level recorded since January 1, 1989, as high feed costs and export demand for beef supported an increase in slaughter. Canadian cattle inventories have generally declined year over year since 2005.

Canadian farmers held 11.1 million cattle and calves on their farms on January 1, 2022, down 0.5% from the previous year, as the Canadian cattle herd continued to contract. Inventories were one-quarter (-25.7%) below the January 1 peak reached in 2005. continued on page 8

Now available!

For reliable information and resources please visit:

Provincial Government Making Free COVID Rapid Tests Available in More Places, Update on Isolation Requirements (March 3, 2022 Province of Manitoba News Release)

Information about COVID-19 in Manitoba is updated on Thursdays at 12:30 p.m. on these DataMB dashboards: • Case data: https://geoportal.gov.mb.ca/apps/m anitoba-covid-19/explore • COVID-19 vaccination coverage: https://geoportal.gov.mb.ca/ap ps/manitoba-covid-19-vaccinationsdashboard-1/explore • Outbreaks: www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/prs/index.html Key Updates The province is distributing over four million rapid tests to retail partners across Manitoba. To date, eight retail chains have signed on to the program, including Co-op (42 locations), Loblaw/Shoppers Drug Mart (59 locations), London Drugs (one location), Rexall (18 locations), Save-On-Foods (5 locations), Safeway, Sobeys and IGA (40 locations), Walmart (16 locations) and North West Company (29 locations). Supplies are expected to be in place at all participating locations by early next week.

An additional 18,000 tests are being distributed to 18 public library locations in Winnipeg. Kits contain five tests per bag and people can receive up to two bags per family. Asymptomatic people can pick these up to use in the future when they or a household member develop symptoms.

For a full list of participating partners, visit www.manitoba.ca/covid19/testing/rat.html.

As of March 15, public health will no longer require people who test positive for COVID-19 to isolate.

Further guidance will be provided, however it will continue to be recommended that people with symptoms should stay home when they are sick.

Also, as of March 15, public health will no longer conduct case investigations of people who have tested positive for COVID-19. Individuals will continue to be notified of their test results.

Individuals who have been tested for COVID-19 are now able to access all past COVID-19 test results through the Shared Health portal at https://sharedhealthmb.ca/covid19/test-results/.

Previously, only the most current test results were available. Self-administered rapid antigen test results are not available through the portal.

Individuals who experience an issue accessing their records can request support at https://forms.gov.mb.ca/covid-immunizationrecord-request/index.html.

Vaccine Manitoba now has a sufficient supply of Pfizer vaccine. Individuals who previously received Pfizer or Moderna can choose either vaccine for their next dose, as both are safe, effective and available.

The vaccine clinic at the RBC Convention Centre in Winnipeg remains open with appointments and walk-ins available. The provincial call centre and online booking system is still taking appointments for many locations.

More Resources • COVID-19 in Manitoba: www.manitoba.ca/COVID19.

• Vaccine campaign: www.manitoba.ca/vaccine and https://protectmb.ca.

• Testing information: www.manitoba.ca/covid19/testing/index.h tml.

• Enforcement statistics: https://manitoba.ca/openmb/infomb/depa rtments/index.html#cdr

Latest Updates on AgriRecovery Program Re: Invoice Dates and Application Deadline ***See areas highlighted in yellow below.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION AgriRecovery is a disaster relief framework under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership that provides a coordinated process for federal, provincial and territorial governments to respond rapidly when disasters affecting several producers occur.

The Livestock Feed and Transportation Drought Assistance program was developed in consultation with industry to help meet the needs of Manitoba producers experiencing drought conditions.

The program helps livestock producers affected by low moisture conditions in 2021 to maintain their breeding herds.

APPLICATION DEADLINE Applications will be received on an on-going basis until May 13, 2022 (11:59 p.m. CST) HOW TO APPLY Review the AgriRecovery Drought Assistance - Farmers Guidebook for detailed information on eligible and ineligible costs, as well as other program requirements.

For your application to be considered complete, you must submit all necessary program documents.

Required Documents Application Form Declaration of Eligible Breeding Animals - if first time applying Declaration of Extraordinary Expenses - if have extraordinary expenses - only submit once Self-Haul Declaration - if you hauled the feed Invoices - for each feed and/or transportation purchase Proof of Payment - for each invoice (e.g. cleared cheque, bank statement, credit or debit card receipt) VIEW: Drought 2021 industry webinar presentation to learn more about AgriRecovery: Drought Assistance program eligibility and details.

WHAT IS NEW? (March 2022) • Extension of Invoice Dates: Invoices dated on or before April 15, 2022 are eligible if the purchase or transportation was to continue maintaining the eligible breeding animals owned on March 15, 2022.

This extension will assist producers facing issues with taking delivery of feed ordered before the original March 15th deadline.

• Extension of Application Deadline: The application deadline has been extended to May 13, 2022 due to the extension of the eligible dates for invoices. This extension will allow time to obtain proof of payment for the purchases made by April 15, 2022. continued on page 5

Latest Updates on AgriRecovery Program Re: Invoice Dates and Application Deadline •

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Expansion of Eligible Feeds: the list of eligible feeds now includes feed additives and premixes, molasses based products, vitamins, minerals, and oils and fats. The change is retroactive to June 1, 2021. Previous applicants of the program will receive an email or letter in the mail informing them how they can apply for these expenses.

Extraordinary Expenses incurred between June 1, 2021 and March 15, 2022 including hauling water, renting extra pasture and cropland, harvesting extra acres for livestock feed, temporary fencing for supplemental grazing, and transporting feed from distant locations. A one time declaration of extraordinary expenses can be submitted over the life of the program.

View: What are Extraordinary Expenses?

View: How do Extraordinary Expenses Increase Payments?

For Full Program information on AgriRecovery Feed and Transportation Drought Assistance refer to: https://www.manitoba.ca/agriculture/livestock/agrirecovery-feed-purchase-transport-assistance.html

SUMMARY OF RESOURCES AND SUPPORT TOOLS FOR ALL AGRIRECOVERY DROUGHT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM: Feed and Transportation Drought Assistance Web Page: Livestock Feed and Transportation Assistance Video: What are Extraordinary Expenses?

Video: How do Extraordinary Expenses Increase Payments?

Quick Reference: How to Apply for Livestock Feed and Transportation Assistance Quick Reference: How to Calculate Payment per Head on Feed Purchases Quick Reference: What Qualifies for Livestock Feed and Transportation Assistance Livestock Transportation Drought Assistance Web Page: Livestock Transportation Assistance Quick Reference: How to Apply for Livestock Transportation Assistance Quick Reference: What Qualifies for Livestock Transportation Assistance Herd Management Drought Assistance Web Page: Herd Management Drought Assistance • Video - Herd Management Drought Assistance - Determining Payments • Video - Herd Management Drought Assistance - Two-Step Application Process • Factsheet - Herd Management Drought Assistance

New livestock transport rules now enforced industry said some weren’t necessarily in the animals’ best interests. They said unloading animals for feed, water and rest could be more stressful than a long haul, and there aren’t enough places to unload cattle to do this.

The regulations allow no more than 12 hours on a truck for unweaned animals, and a maximum of 36 hours for weaned animals, with a required eight-hour rest stop.

The regulations allow no more than 12 hours on a truck for unweaned animals and a maximum of 36 hours for weaned animals, witha required eight-hour rest stop. The industry has criticized the new rules, saying some weren’t necessarily in the animals’ best interests. | File photo

By: Karen Briere (Western Producer, March 4, 2022 https://www.producer.com/news/new-livestocktransport-rules-now-enforced/) The CFIA says

enforcement will be flexible while research continues into some feed, water and rest-stop requirements Following a two-year education period to help livestock carriers adjust, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency will now enforce transport regulations enacted Feb. 20, 2020.

However, the agency noted that research into feed, water and rest-stop requirements for older beef calves and unweaned dairy calves is ongoing.

“As such, the CFIA does not plan to prioritize enforcement efforts where the maximum intervals (of 36 hours) without FWR (feed, water, rest) for ruminants of nine days of age and older are exceeded by less than four hours and where all animal welfare outcomes are being met (not exceeding 40 hours),” the agency replied in response to a request for more information.

Amendments to the Health of Animals regulations were first published in 2019 but

Dr. Karen Schwartzkopf-Genswein, a researcher at the federal research centre in Lethbridge, found the difference between calves transported for 36 hours or 12 hours, with and without rest stops, was only some fatigue.

When she presented her work two years ago at the Saskatchewan Beef Industry conference, she noted that cattle management before transport seemed to have the greatest effect on how cattle travel. Calves in good condition can cope with transport stress regardless of how much rest they got, she said then.

Subsequent research comparing preconditioned and freshly weaned calves found similar results. Rest stops provided no benefits, the research found, and in fact the calves that did have a rest were not as alert.

The calves that were not pre-conditioned had less energy and ate less during the rest stop.

The study suggested conditioning can improve the welfare of transported calves.

Further research is still underway.

Still, the two-year period has ended and CFIA “is moving to the full application of the standard regulatory responses process, taking into account harm, history and intent for all humane transport requirements,” the agency said late last month.

CFIA said the regulations also include feed, water and rest outcome-based requirements to continued on page 7

New livestock transport rules now enforced make sure animals won’t suffer, be injured or die during transport.

Pat Hayes, co-chair of the animal health and care committee at the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association, said a bigger regulatory issue producers may not be aware of is that they require a transfer of care document when leaving an animal at an auction mart, assembly yard or slaughter plant.

“It’s going to be in effect and it’s going to be a surprise to a lot of people,” he said. “That document is going to be required by the transporter. Now, the transporter can be a commercial company or it can be the producer.”

CFIA said it has taken a “compliance enforcement approach” to the document even though it has technically been in place.

The transfer of care document must contain the date and time the animals arrived at the assembly point, their condition upon arrival, and when they were last fed, watered and rested.

Verified Beef Plus has developed a template available to all producers on the organization’s website. Some provinces and companies are also developing forms.

Hayes said 99.95 percent of beef cattle transported arrive at their destinations in perfect shape and the regulations were made for all sectors rather than those that might have had problems.

If cattle are going to be unloaded for feed, water and rest there is a rest station in Kapuskasing, Ont., at a former demonstration farm and another at a former goat dairy in Hallebourg, Ont. However, Hayes said there still isn’t enough capacity to follow the regulations and he worries there could be more cattle from the United States moving north into Ontario feedlots rather than from Western Canada.

“It isn’t only the west to east,” he added. “The Maritimes are in no better position getting into Quebec and Ontario. They face these same limits on these time restraints.”

Statistics Canada – cont. from page 1

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Cattle and calf slaughter for the period from July to December 2021 was up 0.7% from the same period in 2020, and reached the highest level recorded since the second half of 2009. Strong export demand for Canadian beef— particularly from the United States— helped support domestic slaughter, as total exports of beef and veal rose 19.6% in 2021, compared with 2020.

Inventories were up 1.2% to 2.9 million head in Eastern Canada, but declined by 1.2% to 8.2 million head in Western Canada, as drought conditions maintained pressure on the livestock sector. Alberta held the largest cattle inventories among the provinces on January 1, contributing 39.4% to the national total, followed by Saskatchewan (19.9%) and Ontario (14.6%).

Canadian cattle producers retained less breeding stock on January 1, 2022, as year-over-year decreases in the number of beef cows (-0.9% to 3.5 million head), dairy cows (0.2% to 979,200 head) and beef heifers for breeding (-4.0% to 517,300 head) more than offset increases in the number of dairy heifers for breeding (+0.8% to 429,700 head) and bulls (+1.7% to 213,600 head).

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Producers also held fewer feeder heifers (-2.3%) and steers (-3.9%) than on January 1, 2021. Compared with 2020, slaughter of feeder heifers and slaughter of steers were both up at the national level over the course of 2021, contributing to this decline.

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Canadian farmers held 1.4 million dairy cows and heifers on their farms on January 1, 2022, up 0.1% from the same date a year earlier. The inventory of calves grew 1.2% to 3.8 million head, as international imports of live calves increased by 36.3% over the second half of 2021, compared with the same period in 2020, to meet demand from feedlots in Western Canada.

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International exports of cattle and calves for the latter half of 2021 were up 22.8% year over year to 331,100 head, particularly in Western Canada, where drought conditions and high feed costs spurred sales of both feeder and slaughter animals to the United States.

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Average prices for Canadian feeder and slaughter cattle generally remained higher in the second half of 2021, compared with the same period in 2020, even as prices were pressured by herd reductions in the Prairie provinces.

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As of January 1, 2022, inventories of cattle and calves were reported by 72,275 farms, down 0.9% from January 1, 2021. The number of cattle farms in Canada has generally decreased since 2004, largely because of business consolidations.

continued on page 9

Statistics Canada – cont. from page 1 Also on February 28th Statistics Canada released farm cash receipts for the period January to December 2021. Of note: •

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Livestock receipts increased $3.5 billion to $29.9 billion in 2021. Hog receipts rose 32.5% to $6.2 billion while cattle and calves receipts were up 11.0% to $10.2 billion.

The increase in cattle and calves receipts was driven by a rise in slaughter receipts (+14.4%) to $7.2 billion as both prices and marketings increased, 9.6% and 4.4%, respectively.

On March 3rd Statistics Canada released the Farm Product Price Index for December 2021.

Of note in relation to the livestock sector: •

The livestock and animal products index increased 9.4% in December 2021, as a

result of higher prices for cattle and calves, hogs and some supply-managed commodities, which grew based on increasing production costs and high demand. This was the 11th consecutive year-over-year increase in the livestock and animal products index.

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The cattle and calves index was the main driver of the 13.7% increase in the livestock and animal products index in December 2021. Higher export demand for beef and veal offered strong support to the cattle and calves prices. By the end of 2021, total exports of beef and veal were 19.6% higher, and the total slaughter number for cattle and calves was 5.0% more than the same period in 2020.

Grazing Workshop Series Start Your Grazing Plan (Workshop 1) Choice of 3 locations MBFI Brookdale Farm Learning Centre - Tuesday, April 12, 2022 (1:00-6:00 PM) North of Brandon, corner of PR 353 and HWY #10 Eriksdale Community Centre - Wednesday, April 13 2022 (9:30-3:00PM) 22 Railway Ave - Eriksdale Grandview Kinsmen Community Centre - Thursday, April 14, 2022 (9:30-3:00PM) 435 Burrows Ave - Grandview

Agenda • Building Pasture Productivity using Pasture Planning

Steve Kenyon - Greener Pastures Ranching Ltd • Using Agri-Maps as a tool to develop grazing system plan Shawn Cabak - Ag Adaptation Specialist - Livestock, MB Ag • Developing applications for grazing project funding - Laura Grzenda - Agri-Ecosystems Specialist, MB Ag - Andrea Bertholet & Jewel Mazur - Extension Specialist, MB Ag - Local Conservation Group Programming • Hands–on supplementary training (optional, bring your laptop) SAVE THE DATES! - MORE DETAILS TO FOLLOW Fence and Water Solutions (Workshop 2) - MBFI Brookdale Farm Site - June 1, 2022 Electric Fencing Theory and Hand-on Demonstration, Solar Power for Remote Water Systems, Pasture Pipeline Installation Health Check Your Pasture and Soil (Workshop 3) - MBFI First Street Pasture - July 6, 2022 Hands-on Demonstration of Pasture and Soil Health Assessments Diversify Your Grazing (Workshop 4 ) - MBFI Brookdale Farm Site - August 4, 2022 Extended Grazing and Annual Forages for Feed and Livestock/Crop Integration

Workshop Fee - $30.00 per event (Discount available through attending multiple workshops) Pre-Registration is required and spaces may be limited.

Register at MBFI website @ https://www.mbfi.ca/event-registration or call 204-761-3300 (April 8 registration deadline for Workshop 1) Funded in part by the Manitoba Government

Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month Marked With Support For Canada’s Next Generation of Farmers (March 2, 2022 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada News Release) Youth and young farmers are the

future of Canada's agriculture and agri-food sector. By connecting youth directly with farmers to learn how our food is produced and showcase the vital role that farmers play in our food system, the Government of Canada is helping to inspire and build the next generation of young farmers to ensure a strong, sustainable Canadian agriculture sector.

To kick off Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month (CALM), the Minister of Agriculture and AgriFood, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, announced up to $415,000 in support for Agriculture in the Classroom Canada (AITC-C).

CALM, celebrated annually in March, encourages students to learn about and celebrate Canada's incredible agriculture and food story.

In celebration of CALM, AITC-C is hosting the Great Canadian Farm Tour, an engaging learning experience which gives students an opportunity to learn about Canada’s agriculture industry by interacting virtually with real farmers. The Great Canadian Farm Tour includes a virtual field trip with 11 live farm tours focusing on the diversity of commodities across Canada throughout the month of March.

AITC-C will receive up to $55,000 through the new federal AgriCommunication Program to support activities related to the virtual farm tours. In addition, AITC-C will also receive nearly $360,000 under the AgriDiversity program to expand its thinkAG initiative, which is designed to help Canadian students learn about, and inspire interest in, the many diverse and exciting career opportunities in agriculture.

The Government of Canada is committed to raising awareness, understanding and appreciation of agriculture among young Canadians. Initiatives such as AITC-C are connecting classrooms with farmers and people with a passion for agriculture and food so students and teachers can learn firsthand about the sector through information sessions, learning events and program materials for Canadian educators. These initiatives provide students with valuable education about how their food gets to their table and creates opportunities to inspire young future leaders in the sector.

Quotes “To build the next generation of agricultural producers, we must inform and inspire Canadian youth. The objective of Agriculture in the Classroom is to spark their interest early by teaching youth about the origins of the food they eat and the role of our farm families, while raising awareness of the many possible careers in our sector. Supporting these efforts is an investment in a stronger, more sustainable agriculture sector.”

- The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food

“As always, we are thrilled to continue our collaborations with AAFC through this most recent announcement of funding. The support will be leveraged alongside other AITC-C donors to ensure initiatives such as CALM and thinkAG continue to grow and thrive with useful tools for educators and experiences for students.

Reaching the young people of this nation, our future leaders and decision makers, is key to continued on page 12

Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month Marked With Support For Canada’s Next Generation of Farmers ensuring continued public trust and growth in Canada’s agriculture and food sector.”

Indigenous Peoples, and persons with disabilities, to fully participate in the sector by helping these groups address the key issues and barriers they often face for sector participation.

- Johanne Ross, Executive Director, AITC-C Quick facts • Launched in December 2021, the new AgriCommunication Program will provide up to $8 million over 3 years to support projects that promote consumer awareness of the strengths of Canada’s agriculture sector. Projects will also help enhance Canadians’ trust in sustainability, animal care, and efforts to reduce food waste. Projects and final funding are subject to negotiation of a contribution agreement.

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The AgriDiversity Program is a five year, $5 million program under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership which helps under-represented groups in Canadian agriculture, including youth, women,

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AITC-C, a national not-for-profit organization, is the voice for agriculture education in Canada. Together with its ten provincial members as well as industry partners, the organization delivers accurate, balanced, and current curriculum-linked agri-food resources, programs, and initiatives that are based on science.

Associated links •

AgriCommunication Program

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AgriDiversity Program

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Agriculture in the Classroom Canada

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Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month – the Great Canadian Farm Tour

Emergency Management Workshops and Other Planning Resources for Livestock Producers A serious animal disease outbreak is recognized as an industry's greatest vulnerability because of the potential impact it could have on the affected industries and livestock sectors. Knowing what to do when a serious animal disease is suspected on your farm is key to limiting the spread and impact of a disease outbreak.

"The First 48 Hours for Producers" is a NEW quick reference tool developed by the Animal Health Emergency Management (AHEM) project that lists the key Communication, Enhanced Biosecurity, and On-farm Investigation actions to take to protect yourself, your animals, and business after being notified by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) that there is a suspicion of a federally regulated disease on your farm. See: (https://bit.ly/3h11VT7) This resource can be used alongside other AHEM producer tools and handbooks found at www.animalhealth.ca/resources to proactively plan, prepare and respond to an animal disease emergency event.

The information is designed to boost preparedness with proactive steps and to provide insight into the knowledge and skills required during a serious animal disease outbreak.

Upcoming webinar dates: March 1, March 22 (English & French) and April 5. Click here to register. All workshops are one hour starting at 10:00 am (Mountain) / 12:00 pm noon (Eastern).

Webinar 2: Resourced and Ready – Exploring Proactive Disease Management Tactics and Tools Explore the concepts and support tools found in the AHEM resources and ask questions about animal health emergency management.

Upcoming webinar dates: March 17 and April 14 (English and French) Click here to register. All workshops are one hour starting at 10:00 am (Mountain) / 12:00 pm noon (Eastern).

Webinar 3: Testing, Testing, 1-2-3 – Scenarios for producer Handbook application

AHEM is offering a new three-part series of engaging virtual webinars geared for livestock producers. In each 60-minute interactive webinar we share vital information, tips, and tools for understanding how to prepare and respond during a serious animal disease emergency.

Participants will be introduced to AHEM’s producer-oriented simulation workshops, which give a practical understanding of how AHEM resources are used as guidance before, during and/or after a serious animal disease outbreak.

Webinar 1: Navigating the Unexpected – Emergency Management 101

Visit www.animalhealth.ca/workshops for more information including webinar dates and registration.

A general overview of emergency management along with producer roles and responsibilities.

Upcoming webinar date: July TBD, 2022.

Registration for this webinar is coming soon.

Manitoba Public Insurance suspends Third Party Pandemic Policy, effective March 1 (February 28, 2022 Manitoba Public insurance News Release) Based on updated guidance from public

health, Manitoba Public Insurance is announcing the suspension of its Third Party Pandemic policy, effective March 1. As a result, individuals who are not fully vaccinated or prefer not to share will no longer be required to show proof of vaccination or a negative test result for services/appointments where physical distancing or barriers are not possible, which previously included road tests and driver assessments.

The policy previously applied to all third-party individuals, including consultants, volunteers, board members and contractors, including students and instructors in the Driver Z program.

“Our primary concern continues to be the safety, health and well-being of our staff, customers and business partners,” said Satvir Jatana, Chief Customer Officer, MPI. “We will continue to keep key protocols in place to ensure the ongoing protection of everyone in our locations against the spread of COVID-19.”

Customers attending any MPI location must continue to adhere to the following requirements, until further notice:

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Wear a mask at all times, preferably a medical grade mask.

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While customers will again be permitted to wait for their service/appointment in our Service Centre waiting rooms, they will need to maintain social/physical distancing requirements of 6 feet from staff and other customers.

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Answer pre-screening questions when receiving services or attending appointments. We also encourage customers to continue to also selfscreen prior to attending our locations and if they have COVID-19 symptoms, please do not visit until they have subsided.

MPI’s plexi-glass barriers will remain in place and employees that complete road tests and incar assessments will be required to wear half mask respirators with P95/P100 filters until further notice.

MPI will also resume booking oral knowledge test appointments as of March 1.

Applications now being accepted for Youth Employment and Skills Program (February 28, 2022 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada News Release) Engaging youth in

agriculture with meaningful work opportunities is critical to the development of Canada’s next generation of farmers.

The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, announced an investment of up to $3.7 million to enhance the Youth Employment and Skills Program (YESP) and support approximately 300 jobs for youth in the agriculture sector. The YESP aims to support agri-food employers and provide young Canadians between the ages of 15 and 30 with job experience in agriculture that could lead to a career working in the sector.

The YESP will support agriculture employers with the cost of hiring Canadian youth with an additional focus on those who face employment barriers. Eligible applicants include producers, agri-businesses, industry associations, provincial and territorial governments, Indigenous organizations and research facilities.

What the YESP offers: •

Employers that hire youth facing specific employment barriers will be eligible for 80 per cent of the cost of salaries and benefits, up to $14,000.

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Applicants will be eligible for an additional $5,000 in funding to address the barriers, including relocation.

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Depending on demand, the program will support 50 per cent of salaries and benefits for youth who do not face these barriers, up to $14,000.

Applications are now open for a limited time.

Employers can apply between February 28, 2022 and March 21, 2022 for their project to be

considered. Applications forms for the YESP are available through the webpage.

Additional information, can be found by contacting aafc.yesp-pecj.aac@canada.ca, or calling: 1-866-452-5558.

The agriculture sector continues to face difficulty accessing labour. The YESP seeks to pair farmers with Canadian youth who may be in need of employment. By promoting youth employment in the agriculture sector, the Government of Canada is ensuring a resilient food supply chain and keeping the sector strong and well-positioned for the future.

Quotes “Canadian youth are the future of our sector.

We need to provide them with tools and opportunities to gain experience to help them reach their full potential. The Youth Employment and Skills Program helps eliminate barriers to employment for those wishing to pursue a career in agriculture. Our Government continues to support agri-food employers to ensure the prosperity of the industry.”

- The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food

“Young Canadians deserve opportunities to build their skills and work toward a career that they are truly passionate about. The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, with its focus on helping young people facing barriers, creates a path to meaningful employment in many indemand sectors, including the ever-growing agriculture sector. We all succeed when we open doors for young people to build their careers and dreams.”

- The Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth continued on page 17

Applications now being accepted for Youth Employment and Skills Program Quick facts •

Youth facing barriers includes: Indigenous youth, youth living with a physical disability, youth living with a diagnosed mental health disability, visible minorities, recent immigrants (within five years), those residing in a remote location, youth living in a low income household, or a single parent and early school leaver.

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First launched in June 2019, the YESP has supported the creation of nearly 1,000 agricultural jobs across Canada (2020-2021).

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The YESP is part of the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS), an Employment and Social

Development Canada-led initiative involving 12 federal departments and agencies. YESS is part of the Government of Canada's commitment to help young people, particularly those facing barriers to employment, get the information and gain the skills, work experience and abilities they need to make a successful transition into the labour market.

Associated links •

AAFC Youth Employment and Skills Program

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Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) – Employment and Social Development Canada

*Manitoba producers welcome to attend

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Alberta Farm Animal Care to host virtual Livestock Care Conference 2022 Prep for Livestock Emergencies February 14, 2022 (Calgary, AB) - Alberta Farm Animal Care (AFAC) is hosting the annual Livestock Care Conference virtually from March 15 to March 17, 2022. The conference centers around emergency preparedness following the PREP theme (Plan, Respond, Evaluate, Progress). The conference will focus on livestock emergencies and will include presentations, workshops and panels with experts, producers and industry leaders about crisis planning and management. Registration will also include two Lunch n’ Learn sessions prior to the conference on March 8 and March 10, 2022.

“While we had hoped to introduce our new format in-person, we felt we needed to return to virtual for one more year. As well as Zoom, we have added a few new platforms that allow us to provide a more engaging and interactive experience,” said Annemarie Pedersen, AFAC executive director. “We are excited to welcome attendees from across Canada and provide an opportunity to learn and engage with people from all sectors of the livestock industry.”

The Livestock Care Conference (LCC) includes three days of interactive learning sessions covering a range of topics such as: -

Biosecurity Disease preparedness Emergency response Trespass

The agenda will run through the different aspects of PREP, starting with a high-level look at livestock emergency planning, prep and management from keynote speaker, and president of Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue, Rebecca Gimenez Husted.

“We started planning this conference last summer and had no idea what the year would hold,” said Pedersen. “If the extreme weather events we experienced last year taught us anything, it’s the importance of emergency planning and preparedness.”

Post-secondary students will again have the chance to join the LCC student mentorship program and take part in the unique ‘Meet the Experts’ session on March 15, 2022. This exclusive event helps students network, gain an understanding of the industry and join the rest of the conference.

“We’re happy that we can provide agriculture students the opportunity to meet and learn from industry experts,” said Pedersen.

All sessions will be recorded and made available after the event for attendees who cannot watch live. To register for the 2022 Livestock Care Conference please visit https://web.cvent.com/event/1bc052f6-8f3d4ac9-a0f1-dacb41d5d751/summary . For more information about the conference and sponsorship opportunities, email kaylee@afac.ab.ca -30About AFAC Alberta Farm Animal Care Association (AFAC) was founded in 1993 by Alberta livestock producers to provide a voice for the industry on matters of livestock welfare. AFAC provides a coordinated approach for all areas of livestock production and works together to advance and promote responsible livestock care. For more information go to www.afac.ab.ca Contact: Annemarie Pedersen, (403) 652-5111 or annemarie@afac.ab.ca

Industry Update Teamsters Union votes in favour of strike action against CP Rail March 3, 2022

Calgary, AB Situation Snapshot: Teamsters Union members, who work as engineers, conductors, trainpersons, and yardpersons for Canadian Pacific Railway (CP Rail) voted 96.7 per cent in favour of a strike mandate. The Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC) served a notice of dispute to the federal Labour Minister in early February, highlighting issue related to wages, benefits, and pensions. The Union has stated it will continue in the ongoing mediation process overseen by a federally-appointed mediator. Meetings are planned for March 11 – 16, 2022 with March 16 being the date of potential strike.

With the devasting impacts of the droughts in 2021 hitting western Canada, the prairies and parts of Ontario, cattle producers are reliant on feed shipments from the United States (U.S.). On February 1, 2022, there were 1.1. million head of cattle on feed in Alberta and Saskatchewan. According to Statistics Canada, Alberta and Saskatchewan corn imports in 2021 were up 400 per cent.

It is estimated that over 1,000 super-B trucks would be needed weekly to replace the volume of feed grain currently transported by CP trains. Given the severe shortages in trucking, this is not a viable solution.

The Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) and National Cattle Feeders Association (NCFA) are highly concerned about the potential impacts of a rail strike on the ability of beef producers to feed their cattle with essentially no feed buffer within Canada at this time due to the significant drought this last summer and recent rail challenges that limited deliveries in January 2022. CP Rail consistently delivered an average 10 to 11 trains per week from January 24 to the current date, but this has not provided enough reserve of feed supplies to be re-built. Current estimates are that there is a 1 – 2 week supply of feed available within Western Canada. It is imperative that essential services are not interrupted, including the movement of agricultural products by rail.

CCA and NCFA are strongly encouraging both sides to reach a solution prior to the strike action deadline. In the event a solution cannot be reached, the parties should move directly to binding arbitration to avoid a strike and the resulting necessity of implementing back-to-work legislation. It is imperative to prevent the serious consequences that would arise from a shortage of critical feed supplies on Canadian beef operations.

Potential Paths Forward: Straight to Binding Arbitration CP rail has indicated that they would be willing to go directly to binding arbitration which would avoid an interruption in service. Usually, binding arbitration is implemented post enactment of back to work legislation. Under arbitration, the union and the employer submit what they are willing to accept a government-appointed arbitrator and the arbitrator reaches a compromise position that both parties must legally accept.

“Back to work” and “essential service” legislative initiatives Back-to-work legislation is generally used to end a strike — or lockout — in an industry that the government decides is

essential to the operating of the economy. The legislation contains an enforcement section which typically includes fines. It is a unique piece of legislation - a specific law - that addresses a particular issue. The Back-to-work legislation is sponsored by the Minister of Labour, who is currently Seamus O’Regan. The act must be passed in House and in the Senate. It has been utilized a total of 39 times.

Once passed, this legislation imposes a binding arbitration process.

If needed, another avenue that will be pursued, is the Government of Canada can ban strikes by passing essential service legislation. Typically to be deemed an essential service, the service must prevent danger to life, health or safety as well as disruptions of the courts. However, the definition has broadened in response to economic concerns.

As an example, the Government of Canada named a number of industries, including agriculture, as an essential service during the pandemic.

Overview • • • • • •

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The Union representing workers at CP Rail have voted in favour of strike action.

The Union has stated it will continue in the ongoing mediation process that is overseen by a federally-appointed mediator. Meetings are planned for March 11 – 16, 2022.

With the devasting impacts of the droughts in 2021 hitting western Canada, the prairies and parts of Ontario, cattle producers are reliant on feed shipments from the U.S. According to Statistics Canada, Alberta and Saskatchewan corn imports in 2021 were up 400 per cent.

It is estimated that over 1,000 super-B trucks would be needed weekly to replace the volume of feed grain currently be transported by CP trains and trucking capacity is not available leaving no alternative solutions.

Complications throughout the winter depleted the amount of feed grain storage o Covid-related sickness within rail and grain companies reduced available labour for movement and unloading of grain at elevators o Cold weather from the end of December into early January slowed train movement. The cold weather also brought increased feed consumption.

CP Rail consistently delivered an average 10 to 11 trains per week from January 24 to the current date, but this has not provided enough reserve of feed supplies to be re-built.

Current estimates are that there is a 1 – 2 week supply of feed available.

For further information, contact: Michelle McMullen Communications Manager 403-275-8558 | mcmullenm@cattle.ca Megan Madden Communications Manager National Cattle Feeders’ Association 780-686-8807 | mmadden@cattlefeeders.ca