VICTORIA – B.C. Agriculture Minister Norm Letnick issued the following
statement today, about the Government of Canada’s decision to grant tax
deferrals to B.C livestock producers in regions affected by drought.

“I’d like to thank Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz for extending the
opportunity of tax deferral to B.C. ranchers. The ability to defer a portion
of their income to the following year, offers the ability for ranchers to
replenish their stock and prepare a sustainable business plan for the
impacts of this year’s drought. The unprecedented hot and dry weather brings
the immediate challenges of heat and water, and the longer term impacts of
more expensive, and harder to find cattle feed, and the announcement made
today, is one tool to help ranchers better prepare for it.

“In addition, the B.C. government will continue our partnership with the
Government of Canada in providing a range of risk management programs that
compensate ranchers for weather related losses and declines in income.
Farming and ranching is hard work, with risks and perils, and the B.C.
government is doing our best to ensure B.C. farmers have access to programs
and products to help mitigate that risk.

“British Columbians have a role to play in supporting our farmers and
ranchers too. I’d like to encourage British Columbians to show their support
for local farmers and ranchers this summer and all year long. By choosing
B.C. products you’re investing in your community and B.C. food security.”