NATIONAL BEEF CHECK-OFF EFFECTIVE AUGUST 1ST, 2005

Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman today signed agreements with the Canadian Beef Cattle Research, Market Development and Promotion Agency to become part of a national check-off scheme effective August 1st, 2005.

"Saskatchewan cattle producers encouraged the Province of Saskatchewan to establish a national check-off in 1998 in preparation for the eventual implementation of a full national check-off for the Canadian cattle industry," Wartman said. "The intention at that time was that cattle producers in all provinces of Canada would participate in a national check-off, with the purpose being to provide funding for a national cattle agency that would undertake research and marketing."

A portion of the check-off funds submitted to the national agency will be redistributed to the provinces and the balance will be retained by the agency.

"I would like to emphasize two points so that there is no misunderstanding or confusion about the check-off. First, the check-off fee in Saskatchewan has not been increased. It remains at two dollars per head sold, which includes the one dollar national check-off fee established by the producers in 1998. This fee will remain until producers decide to change it," Wartman said. "Second, the Saskatchewan portion of producers' check-off dollars and accumulated interest are maintained in a special trust fund for use by the Saskatchewan cattle industry."

Wartman said the Saskatchewan dollars accumulated by the national agency will be allocated by Saskatchewan producers toward promotion, research and market development.

The legislation providing for the check-off in Saskatchewan, The Cattle Marketing Deductions Act was passed in 1998 and amended at the request of Saskatchewan cattle producers in 2004.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Scott Brown Agriculture and Food Regina Phone: (306) 787-4031