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Opposition, unions fear federal cuts could undermine food security
Unions say more than 1,250 planned job cuts and research site closures could weaken inspection and agricultural science, with recalls up 150% from 2013 to 2023.
- On Wednesday, the federal government announced plans to cut more than 650 jobs at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and about 600 at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, saving roughly $230 million over 10 years.
- New Democrats and several unions warn that these job cuts and research farm closures could undermine food safety and security, arguing inspection and research pillars are critical to the system.
- Data from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency shows food recalls increased to more than 150 between 2013 and 2023, while planned closures include the Lacombe Research and Development Centre in Alberta and Quebec Research and Development Centre.
- Conservative MP John Barlow said the committee learned closing the facilities will save around $230 million over 10 years, calling the move "catastrophic" for critical agricultural areas.
- Alexandre Bergeron, a spokesperson for the health minister, stated the agency is "reorienting" spending to align with core priorities, insisting no services to Canadians will be compromised.
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Food security could be undermined by federal cuts say NDP, union
New Democrats and several unions are warning that federal job cuts and research facility closures will put food safety and security at risk. The federal government’s website says it’s planning to cut more than 650 jobs at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, while the Agriculture Union says the government will cut about 600 more jobs at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada also said earlier this year it planned to c…
Coverage Details
Total News Sources37
Leaning Left25Leaning Right0Center10Last UpdatedBias Distribution71% Left
Bias Distribution
- 71% of the sources lean Left
71% Left
L 71%
C 29%
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