November 14, 2006

Canada's hog producers say they are unfairly targeted

The Manitoba government has unfairly singled out hog producers as being responsible for water quality concerns in the province, hog producers said after the province imposed a ban on new hog farms and expansions.

The provincial government's actions have damaged a very sustainable and profitable industry, the producers said.

Karl Kynoch, Manitoba Pork Council chairman said hog producers are gravely concerned that the industry is being unfairly targeted by the government.

Kynoch said in public consultations with the government and other groups on water quality issues, it was widely accepted that water quality is an issue that is everyone's responsibility. Now the government has very clearly put the blame on the hog industry, Kynoch said.

Hog producers have become the scapegoat for water quality concerns, Kynoch continued.

Manitoba hog producers are committed to the environment and must follow some of the most comprehensive and restrictive environmental laws, rules and regulations that exist, Kynoch said.

Manitoba Pork Council has also invested millions of dollars in third-party, independent research and environmental stewardship initiatives to protect the environment and water.

Kynoch said he is confident that the CEC review would prove that the hog industry in Manitoba is responsible and environmentally sustainable.