February 1, 2008
Quebec pig producers to receive PMWS aid package
Quebec has earmarked US$17.5 million aid package, for pig farmers within the province hit by the post-weaning multi-systemic wasting syndrome (PMWS), which will start next month.
The province announced plans for direct aid and interest-free loans yesterday, and the cash-strapped industry will welcome it most warmly.
Announced on December, the aid package will cover up to two-thirds of the pigs affected by PMWS, a swine disease caused by PCV2 and gives clinical signs such as progressive loss of body condition, difficulty in breathing, diarrhea and jaundice.
La Financiere agricole, the provincial agricultural lending agency, will supervise the aid program. The payment is expected to take place in February.
