Grain Growers of Canada calls for clarity, transparency on AAFC research cuts

Grain Growers of Canada is calling for more clarity from the federal government following cutbacks to Agriculture and Agri-Food staff and research centres.

“Transparency is essential when decisions affect the foundation of Canada’s agricultural research system,” said GGC chair Scott Hepworth in a Friday news release.

WHY IT MATTERS: In recent weeks, AAFC has confirmed it will be cutting 665 jobs and closing seven research centres across Canada — moves that have drawn broad criticism from the industry.

GGC said the cuts required impact assessments and will hinder the ability to assess downstream consequences on Canadian agriculture. It called for immediate clarity on affected programs, facilities and research capacity.

“Without clear disclosure of what research capacity is being reduced or eliminated, the sector cannot understand the long-term risks to production and competitiveness,” Hepworth added. “It must be clear what capacity is being lost, where, and with what consequences.”

GGC criticized the department for not providing more transparency around the reasoning for the cuts and for citing personnel confidentiality as their reasoning.

“Personnel confidentiality is not a barrier to clarity on program impacts,” Hepworth said, adding transparency about the affected programs is “both possible and necessary.”

In a previous statement to Glacier FarmMedia, a representative from AAFC cited “a careful review of the department’s science activities, sector priorities, capacity, and infrastructure” for the decisions.

The statement also said the choices “position AAFC to sustain strong scientific capacity, improve efficiency, and concentrate resources where they will continue to generate scientific, economic and environmental benefits.”

GGC also raised concerns about the potential impacts the cuts will have on research capacity, regional expertise and innovation in the sector.