BSE PROGRAM PAYMENTS FLOWING TO PRODUCERS

Payments under the Government of Canada's Cull Animal Program have begun to flow to Saskatchewan producers still struggling with the impacts of BSE.

Earlier this year, Saskatchewan agreed to deliver the federal Cull Animal Program payments to producers in Saskatchewan, as the program is based on the same information as the provincial Cull Animal Program. Approximately $14 million in payments to about 15,000 producers has been paid out to date under Saskatchewan's Cull Animal Program.

"I'm pleased that cheques under the Cull Animal Program are being delivered to producers," federal Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Bob Speller said. "This program is one of many steps that governments are taking to help producers manage during this difficult situation."

"Saskatchewan and the federal government have worked together to deliver the federal Cull Animal Program payments at low cost and with minimum administrative burden on livestock producers," Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Minister Mark Wartman said.

Canada, Saskatchewan and all other provinces, along with the livestock industry, continue to work toward a full resumption of trade in meat products and live animals with the United States.

For more information about payments under the federal Cull Animal Program, call 1-877-874-5365.

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For More Information, Contact:

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

Media Relations Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Ottawa Phone: (613)759-7972