The Green Party of Saskatchewan (GPS) is alarmed that we are now into April and the Grain Backlog Crisis in Rural Saskatchewan continues.
The federal government's proposed solution to end the backlog is not adequate. Imposing fines on the railway companies for not moving the grain has not compelled CN and CP to get the grain moving. Meanwhile spring is here and it is going to be very difficult for most farmers to get into their fields soon without cash in their pockets.
We urge the Harper Government to work with the Wall Government quickly to develop a Provincial Transportation Strategy to address the transportation needs of farmers first and end the backlog as soon as possible. We need to work with all levels of government to create a strategy that makes the entire Transportation system work for everyone involved.
The most immediate need for the Strategy is to help farmers get their grain to port so they can make some money. Any fines collected by Ottawa from the railway companies should go to Saskatchewan farmers as compensation.
Victor Lau, Leader of the GPS, Regina, SK.
