Saskatchewan’s premier has appointed a delegation that includes three cabinet ministers and an MLA in an effort to ease an ongoing railway grain backlog.
The delegation will meet with representatives from major grain companies this week to discuss the challenges they are facing in moving grain and potential solutions.
Producer contracts and lower grain prices will also be discussed, and the delegation will encourage grain companies to pursue level of service contracts with the railways.
“This grain movement backlog is a very serious situation for the entire province and it is a high priority for our government,” Premier Brad Wall said in a news release.
“The delays in moving grain have led to lower prices for our producers at the farmgate and are harming our reputation as a reliable supplier of agriculture products throughout the world. We want every possible avenue explored to ensure our producers have the ability to market and deliver their grain in a timely manner.”
The delegation appointed by Wall includes Agriculture Minister Lyle Stewart and his legislative secretary, MLA Scott Moe, as well as Economy Minister Bill Boyd, and Highways and Infrastructure Minister Don McMorris.
The Saskatchewan government says it will continue to pressure Ottawa to ensure improved grain movement remains a top priority.
