The Canadian Grain Commission is asking for input in updating their user fees and service standards. From March 1st to May 1st, anyone that works inside the grain industry can voice their advice and opinions on the matter.

Remi GosselinRemi Gosselin, Head of Communications for the Grain Commission, says this is part of their five year review cycle, "We have reviewed our fee schedule and launched consultations on our fees. Most of the fees will be reduced because we have reevaluated annual grain volume projections, the revenue generated for services provided, and the cost of providing those service."

Savings are estimated to be around 44 cents per tonne, or 50 million dollars. Gosselin says that overall the fees would result in a 23% decrease for 2018/19. The updated fees would take effect on April 1, 2018.

The Grain Commission is also asking the thoughts of farmers, farm groups, industry associations and grain companies about the future of the commission's surplus. Over the last five years, the Grain Commission has accumulated 107 million dollars in surplus.

Gosselin says they have four potential options to invest that money into. Of course, people can choose to express their own ideas or options when submitting input.

1. Producer Compensation Fund - to compensate producers in the event of a licensed elevator or grain dealer fails to pay them in a delivery.

2. Reduce Fees - a predetermined portion of the surplus would be put towards fees over a specific period of time. Once that period of time is over, fees would return to normal.

3. Capitol Investments - the surplus would be put towards science, infrastructure and lab services.

4. Establishing Labs - establishing labs and real time testing in key locations of the grain handling system.

 

Input can be submitted through e-mail, fax, or post mail.

Email: discussions@grainscanada.gc.ca

fax to 204-983-2751

or mail to: (include return address)

User Fees Comments/Accumulated Surplus Comments
Canadian Grain Commission
600-303 Main Street
Winnipeg MB R3C 3G8

For details on submitting your input click here - Proposal to Update User Fees or Potential Uses of Surplus