As a rancher and cattleman, I know the last few years have been incredibly challenging for the agriculture producers who are so vital to the heritage and economy of all Alberta communities.
Extreme weather, global supply chain issues, and the impacts of the COVD-19 pandemic have all taken their toll on our industry. I also know that some government decisions have added burdensome costs and regulations to many ag operations.
I have a proven record of cutting red tape as Alberta’s Finance Minister over the last three years, and I’m committed to making our Agriculture sector more competitive and better able to help meet the looming global food security crisis.
If chosen to serve as our next Premier by UCP members I will:
- Introduce a non-refundable 12% Manufacturing and Processing tax credit for capital investments for agriculture and food processing to keep us competitive with our neighbours while protecting taxpayers.
- Make it easier for farm workers to get their Class 1 license by creating a separate training framework for drivers of farm-plated vehicles.
- Improve business risk management programs to reflect current realities.
- Encourage increased nitrogen production in our strong petrochemical sector to reduce costs and improve availability of fertilizer for Alberta farmers.
- Defend and advance the interests of Alberta’s farmers by working to improve global market access for Alberta’s agriculture products and by ensuring federal regulations, especially around nitrogen, recognize best practices and do not unduly impact our ability to make a living by feeding the world.
I understand the challenges in the agricultural sector, but I also understand the great opportunity for us to increase production and value-added processing in Alberta.
These reforms, on top of Alberta’s tax and regulatory advantages, will position our farmers and ranchers to make the most of these opportunities.
It’s time for government to get out of the way and let our ag industry do what it does best – feed Albertans and the world.
