Ontario Agriculture Minister Ernie Hardeman has waived the requirement for a Farm Business Registration number to file an application under the Ontario Wildlife Compensation Program.
Normally the registration number is required for all Ontario agriculture-related subsidies.
Hardeman has also promised to consider the other program improvements requested by Beef Farmers of Ontario, Ontario Sheep Farmers and the Ontario Federation of Agriculture.
“Today’s announcement is a positive step in the right direction, and an important signal to farm groups that the province is serious about making meaningful program changes that ensure farmers are provided fair and responsive compensation for losses incurred due to conflicts with predators,” shares OSF Chair, Robert Scott.
“OFA would like to thank the government for taking swift action to address the Farm Business Registration requirement that was denying livestock farmers legitimate claims due to a technicality, and we look forward to working with the government to implement all of the changes required to restore producer confidence in the program,” states OFA President, Keith Currie.
