Fertilizer Canada on Oct. 22 offered congratulations to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the newly elected Liberal minority government, and said it is ready to work with all federal political parties to ensure that the fertilizer industry continues to play a vital role in key priorities such as the environment, agriculture, and economic growth.
Trudeau overcame a number of recent scandals to win reelection on Oct. 21, but failed to keep his parliamentary majority. The Liberals lost 20 seats, leaving them 13 short of an absolute majority in the 338-member Parliament. The main opposition Conservatives won 121 seats, with Bloc Québécois and the New Democratic Party splitting most of the remaining seats. Trudeau said he will forgo any formal governing agreement with another party, and instead move ahead with legislation on a case-by-case basis.
Fertilizer Canada said the new Liberal minority government should look to the Canadian agriculture industry as a leader in environmental stewardship, and develop a strong mandate to ensure the sustainable success of the agricultural sector.
“With no representation from Alberta and Saskatchewan in the Liberal caucus, policies developed must reflect the needs of our Western members,” said Garth Whyte, Fertilizer Canada President and CEO. “Our industry faces strong competition for investment, so maintaining favorable economic conditions is essential to our continued success.”
Fertilizer Canada said the federal government should ensure that the fertilizer industry is “not burdened with excessive regulation or taxes,” and encouraged the new government to build on the work done by the agriculture industry in combating climate change.
“We encourage all political parties to formally recognize 4R Nutrient Stewardship as the standard for nutrient management in Canada,” said Whyte. “Through proactive, industry-led initiatives such as 4R Nutrient Stewardship and the 4R Climate Smart Strategy, farmers have the potential to reduce nitrous oxide emissions up to 35 percent.”