MINISTER RECEIVES REVIEW OF CROP INSURANCE

Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud has received a comprehensive review of the Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Program.

The review, prepared by Meyers Norris Penny, is the result of extensive consultation with producers and industry stakeholders. In total, over 1,000 producers participated in the consultations through public meetings, surveys, written submissions and through a toll-free number and website. In addition, 45 industry groups and organizations were invited to provide input.

The review fulfils the commitment made by the Saskatchewan Party Government to undertake a thorough, independent review of the Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Program.

"I would like to thank producers and industry for their input into this valuable process," Bjornerud said. "This report will help form the basis for program improvements in the future."

The review recommends a variety of program improvements including the re-introduction of spot-loss hail; yield trending; yield cushioning; increased coverage for the Wildlife Damage Compensation Program and an overall simplified program.

"I look forward to assessing the recommendations contained in the report and introducing changes for the 2009 crop year," Bjornerud said.

The details of the 2009/10 Crop Insurance Program will be announced in February 2009.

The report is available online at http://www.saskcropinsurance.com/.

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For more information, contact:

Donna Rehirchuk
Agriculture
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5389
Cell: 306-536-9476