totally different that offers some magic numbers in terms of energy efficiency of the drying or the costs…” said Dr. Chandra B. Singh, senior research chair in agricultural engineering and technology at Lethbridge College. “I don’t expect that there will be something new in the short term.” Grain Farmers of Ontario has met with many people in government and the Senate leading up to this time, providing a detailed submission of facts on why the bill is important to Ontario grain farmers and Canadians concerned about food affordability. “We haven’t met with a senator yet who hasn’t watched Grain Farmers of Ontario’s video on grain drying. This video has been a great tool for those senators who can’t make it out to the farm in person,” says Byrne. “Every time we meet with a senator or politician, it is really important to have our partners at our side from the Atlantic Grains Council and the Quebec Grain farmers.” THE ROLE OF THE SECOND CHAMBER Black feels that senators are well-equipped to ask thoughtful and investigative questions to help them decide on the bill. In the modern Senate, the prime minister nominates senators based on recommendations from an arms-length advisory board. This results in senators aligning with one of four groups: the Independent Senators group, the Canadian Senators group, the Progressive Senators group, or the Conservatives. A small subset of senators aligns with no group. “In the old days, whatever happened in the House likely happened in the Senate,” says Black. “In this new world of the Senate of Canada, senators are more apt to ask tougher questions of the government and push back and make changes. But we can’t do that if we don’t know the issue well.” Black says engagement and advocacy efforts by organizations like Grain Farmers of Ontario are critical. Grain Farmers of Ontario will continue to meet with senators and get the message out that an exemption on the carbon tax fuel used to dry grain is necessary because there are no alternatives for farmers to use to dry their grain. Debra Conlon is the director of government relations at Grain Farmers of Ontario. l To view the video visit https://youtu.be/ G3ABuZ7dxTw or scan this code: ONTARIO GRAIN FARMER 31 NOVEMBER 2023 The carbon price is set to increase yearly until it hits $170 a tonne in 2030 – costing the Ontario grain farmer $35 - 46 an acre for the carbon tax. Farm barns to silos, 11,000+ farmers like you have one thing in common. They are understood, valued and insured by The Commonwell Mutual Insurance Group. Find a qualified broker in Commonwell Country today: commonwellcountry.ca/farm NOTHING SMELLS AS SWEET
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