Ag ministers pledge AgriStability reforms after federal-provincial meeting

Federal, provincial and territorial agriculture ministers made several commitments during their annual conference in Halifax, including to bring forward AgriStability changes related to non-arm’s-length labour and contract work, considering impacts on small farms.

The change would recognize compensation paid to family members for work performed on the farm, better reflecting the realities of family-run operations and ensuring labour costs are appropriately captured under the program. It would make contract work such as laying hay or hauling grain, an eligible expense.

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In a statement released at the end of the meetings the ministers said there were several priorities for Canada’s agriculture and agri‑food sector, including reviewing progress under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) and continuing focused discussions on the development of the Next Policy Framework (2028-2033).

Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Heath MacDonald said the Canadian government is committed to investing in the future of agriculture and agri-food and supporting the producers and processors.

“This conference showed how strong federal–provincial–territorial collaboration is helping deepen those investments, strengthen risk‑management tools, and open new opportunities for growth right here, in Canada,” MacDonald said.

“Through the National Food Security Strategy, we are also taking practical steps to support farmers and food businesses while maintaining Canada’s world‑class food safety system.”

Ministers issued the “Halifax Statement”, described as a shared vision that sets out the principles and priorities that will anchor the development of the Next Policy Framework (NPF).

Ministers expressed strong support for the statement, noting that it reflects a clear and united commitment to driving economic growth and competitiveness, and diversifying markets.

Business Risk Management programs were reviewed and reaffirmed that programs must be flexible, responsive, and reflect evolving producer needs amid increasing economic and production risks, while remaining accessible to producers.

Ministers discussed the importance of strengthening Canada’s food system through the recently launched National Food Security Strategy to increase Canada’s ability to process more Canadian‑grown food, bolster regional agri-food projects, strengthen local infrastructure, and enhance self‑sufficiency of Canada’s food processing sector.

There was also discussion on the reviewed progress on implementing a plan developed by the FPT Pesticide Management Working Group.

— with files from CJME News

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