Slaughter Improvement Program- Applications Now Available

Sophie Doucette — July 4, 2009 - All Day

APPLICATION FORMS FOR GOVERNMENT OF CANADA SLAUGHTER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM NOW AVAILABLE OTTAWA, Ontario, July 3, 2009 – The Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of National Revenue and Minister of State (Agriculture) is encouraging all potential applicants to apply for the new federal Slaughter Improvement Program (SIP). The three-year, $50-million program is now accepting applications. “The Slaughter Improvement Program – a commitment made in Canada’s Economic Action Plan – is now up and running,” said Minister Blackburn. "This program will make red meat packing and processing facilities more competitive and accessible to farmers across the country.” The program will make federal repayable contributions available to support investments made by the private sector and other levels of government in sound business plans aimed at reducing costs, increasing revenues and improving operations of red meat packing and processing operations in Canada. Investing in a stronger meat packing and processing industry in Canada benefits the entire value chain and leads to a more profitable and competitive industry and a stronger economy. Meat processing is responsible for $20.5 billion in annual sales for Canadian livestock farmers. For information on how to apply for the program, visit www.agr.ca/slaughterhouse, email SIPagr.gc.ca or call 1-877-246-4682. -30- For more information, media may contact: Media Relations Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Ottawa, Ontario 613-759-7972 1-866-345-7972 Sophie Doucet Press Secretary The Office of the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn Office: 613-947-7298 Cell: 613-608-3252

Category: Agriculture