Agricorp will expedite risk management program payments for Ontario cattle producers for the first and second quarters of 2024. The move comes as the Cargill Guelph beef processing plant remains closed due to a labour union strike that started on May 27, 2024.
To expedite payments, Agricorp says it has moved the deadline to report cattle sales to July 15 from July 31. This should mean that RMP payments will reach farmers up to three weeks sooner.
In addition, the 30-months or less age requirement for cattle is being temporarily waived. This temporary adjustment to the age requirement will keep market-ready cattle eligible under RMP, Agricorp says.
Cull cows remain ineligible for RMP.
The governments of Canada and Ontario have increased the AgriStability interim payments for beef farmers from 50 per cent to 75 per cent, says Beef Farmers of Ontario in a release supporting the updates to government programs.
The Ontario government says it and BFO are closely monitoring loans under the Feeder Cattle Loan Guarantee Program. If needed, the minister will work with BFO to look at flexibility on deadlines.
“Our government is committed to strengthening the agriculture and food sector, particularly during times of increased market challenges,” says Rob Flack, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. “These actions will help Ontario’s beef sector remain resilient and ready to seize new opportunities even as it faces cost pressures beyond its control.”
Agricorp is committed to working with farmers on a case-by-case basis. Producers who are struggling with cashflow or premium payments should contact Agricorp to discuss their options. OMAFA has also developed resources related to marketing and feeding animals during a market disruption which are available here.
Farmers can access free programming available to support their mental health, such as the 24-7 Farmer Wellness Initiative tele-resource at 1-866-267-6255.
