CFIB survey

[dmlfarmer]

The Canadian Federation of Independant Business released a survey of the CWB candidate's position regarding the single desk on November 5,2008. The actual responses from the candidates can be viewed at www.cfib.ca/legis/alberta/agri-business.asp

[AdamSmith]

Even though I'm not a canditate I thought it would complete CFIB's questionaire.

1. Voluntary participation, YES

2. Priority for Wheat, High for all

3. Priority for Barley, High for all

4. Operating on a pure commercial basis with No Special advantages,
No initially, Yes evetually.
I think new legislation should allow for a 3 to 5 year transition period that includes a certain end date to become 100% commercial.

5.Key transitional issues.

#1 Identity, this is the most important thing. How can you plan ahead if you have no idea what your new role will be.

If the cwb wants to be a full bore competitor in the grain business they have some monstorous challenges to overcome. That's not to say they can't but in my opinion it 's better to learn to walk before you can run.

In my opinion the cwb should initially stick to what it knows, pooling wheat sales only. And then expand from there if that proves successful. The lack of facilities is a red herring. The cwb today doesn't own any facilities yet through contractual handling agreements the grain moves through existing infastructure. And at the end of the day if they really really think they need elevators and terminals, build the damn things. Surely that concept can be grasped.

But really I think it's folly for the cwb to think that becoming just another grain company will add value to farmers and the grain sector. They can add value by being different than the other guys.

2. Structure,

Should it be a commercial/shareholder ownership structrure or a membership co-operative?

3. They will have to secure the financing needed to operate and impliment their plan.

6. Suggestions for better customer service.

With Monopoly , None

Voluntary, drop the indignant, self angrandizing attitude, shut your mouths and listen, listen, listen.

Other comments,

The issue is NOT, I repeat, NOT the survivability of the CWB. The issue is giving value to farmers and the grains industry. If the CWB can't offer anything of significant value ther is no need for their continued existence.

[Hopperbin]

You should be a candidate!