To bolster farm safety in Manitoba, the Canadian and Manitoba governments are investing over $1.5 million over the next five years.
Part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) funding is allocated to the Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP) for the FarmSafe Manitoba program. This initiative aims to enhance health and safety standards on Manitoba farms, ensuring a safer working environment for agricultural workers and their families.
Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Lawrence MacAulay and Manitoba Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn announced the investment, emphasizing the program’s importance in adapting to evolving agricultural practices and equipment. FarmSafe Manitoba is tailored to address the unique challenges faced by the agricultural sector, offering vital tools and information to manage risks effectively.
“As equipment and practices evolve and change the day-to-day realities on Canadian farms, it’s vitally important that we take steps to protect our agricultural workers and their families,” said MacAulay. “This important investment will help farmers access essential tools and information to manage risks effectively and keep farming operations in Manitoba safe, sustainable, and productive.”
The program, spearheaded by KAP, includes comprehensive strategies and initiatives focusing on farm safety education and support. It provides resources for farm-specific safety assessments, hazard identification, risk management guidance, and training sessions.
These resources encompass various safety aspects, such as machinery operation, livestock handling, chemical handling, and emergency preparedness.
Kostyshyn highlighted the necessity for farmers and ranchers to protect themselves, their families, and their workers. FarmSafe Manitoba is not just a resource; it’s a catalyst for fostering a culture of safety that promotes both physical and mental well-being.
“As the owners and operators of their farming operations, farmers and ranchers need to be supported in the efforts they take to protect themselves, their families and their workers,” said Kostyshyn. “FarmSafe Manitoba is an invaluable resource that allows producers to use their knowledge and experience to foster a safety culture that promotes physical and mental well-being.”
FarmSafe Manitoba aims to reduce workplace injuries and fatalities while nurturing a culture of safety in the agricultural community. It also aims to heighten awareness about workplace safety’s significance within the Manitoba agri-food sector and improve the overall well-being of farmers and farm workers.
This funding enables KAP to deliver and expand the FarmSafe Manitoba program, equipping Manitoba producers with the necessary resources, tools, and services for safer farm operations. As the demand for these tools and services grows, KAP’s support becomes increasingly vital for Manitoba producers.
Sustainable CAP, a five-year, $3.5-billion investment by Canada’s federal, provincial, and territorial governments, backs this initiative. It supports Canada’s agri-food and agri-products sectors, emphasizing sustainable, safe, and productive agricultural practices.
The investment is a testament to the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and sustainability of the agricultural sector, crucial for the nation’s food security and economic stability.
