Time to revisit depopulation discussion

[grassfarmer]

Because the packer giants don't want it - and they seem to own (or control) the Government as well as our industry organisations like CCA and ABP.

[jensend]

and now it's hard for the producer reps on those boards to change position and keep their pride. the packer reps have had a great time bending these ranchers and feeders over.

[cowman]

If, and that is a big if, killing all cows born pre-1997 would get the borders open then we need to do that? No different than in 1993 we killed all UK imports to save the industry?
Also if testing all animals over 30 months would work then do it? Or even ALL cattle?
If those things would work then we would be some sort of idiots not to do them?
Unfortunately, I doubt they would work...I believe the "sound science" thing was always a crock right from the start. Just a convenient excuse to rip off the Canadian producer?
Personally I don't blame the American cattleman for doing everything in his power to keep the border closed or for that matter their politicians! I do blame our useless politicians up here for doing virtually nothing! Oh, hand out a pittance now and then so they look good, but nothing to get this thing turned around!
If the American based packers are the problem then get rid of them! The day they refused to open their books, should have been the day they got bought out and sent home! In the national interest...sort of thing?

[fredm]

Cowman I completely agree with you. We as Canadians allowed outside interests to dominate our industry. We as an industry have to take responsibility for our current situation. I also believe our government's agenda is not in our industry's best interest. There is going to be some serious fallout in terms of producers leaving the industry either on their own or with the bank's help. I don't know what the solution is, however, I do believe we are on our own and as tough as it appears there will be opportunities.