NEWS RELEASE

 Help for Drought Stricken Livestock Producers

For Immediate Release                                           July 23, 2009 

Ponoka, Alberta:  Blaine Calkins, MP for Wetaskiwin welcomed Agriculture Minister, Gerry Ritz’s announcement that local livestock producers affected by the drought would be eligible for tax deferral.

“Four counties in the Constituency of Wetaskiwin have been hit hard by this summer’s drought, said Mr. Calkins.  Recognizing the hardship this places on producers who have been facing serious challenges since the BSC crisis began, our Government continues to implement programs that support the agriculture sector.”

Producers from the counties of Lacombe, Leduc, Ponoka and Wetaskiwin who reduce their breeding herds by at least 15 per cent will be eligible for a tax deferral on the sale of breeding livestock for one year.  “This will help producers restore their herds for next year,” said Calkins.  

Livestock producers are advised to contact their local Canada Revenue Agency Tax Services Office for details on the income tax provision.  As well, more information is available on my web site: www.blainecalkinsmp.ca or at: www.agr.gc.ca .

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