February 29, 2008

Canada plans swine-culling program
 

The Canadian government has announced a CA$50 million (US$51 million) Cull Breeding Swine Program, with the aim of restructuring the hog industry by reducing the breeding herd, according to the Canadian Pork Council.

The program, which was announced on Monday (February 25, 2008), will be implemented through the Canadian Pork Council with eligible producers receiving a payment of CA$255 (US$260.7) per slaughtered hog.

Compensation will be given for slaughter costs and carcass disposal on invoiced receipts and producers must agree to fully empty at least one barn, which cannot be restocked for three years.

The slaughtered animals are not allowed to enter the human food chain, but they may be used for pet food or other purposes.

The funding is expected to support a 10 percent, which is about 150,000 hogs, reduction of the Canadian swine inventory.

The Treasury Board has not passed this program yet. However, it is expected that the program will soon receive authority.