Rattled

It is a little sickening that there is actually legislation in place that is realistically forcing people to forgo environmentally friendly farming practices in order to keep prices cheap for mass production. Does that really make sense? So cheap production, then, is far more important than our environment and local economic strength? I'm not sure that is how Canada is going to become a sustainable country either economically or environmentally.

What's worse, I think, is that we aren't supporting or encouraging innovative and ultimately more efficient ways of farming. Don't get me wrong I can fully understand not wanting to escalate prices and particularly for such necessities as eggs and milk. I recognize that for a lot of reasons the supply-management system will work. For example, farmers don't have to worry about marketing, searching for customers, or losing out on business because of competitive pricing. However true this may be for some it is not the case for all.

Those who are faming with innovative techniques and producing a higher quality of product should be able to continue to do so and not be penalized because of the restrictions for mass production. They already are doing their own ways of marketing through farmers markets and small business trading. These farmers are producing a different product and they shouldn't be constricted by regulations that have little relevance to their styles. They aren't benefiting from the system in place and it shouldn't stop them from making something that is in demand.

If we restrict innovation and efficient, sustainable practices we are telling the world we don't value progressive thinking or environmentally friendly businesses. Is that the Nova Scotia we want to be proud of? The Canada we want to be a part of? I can't say it is.