Winter 2010
Message from the Chair
Our agricultural industry needs to develop a national leadership strategy that will benefit not only today’s primary producers and general farm organizations, but also future generations of both.We must seek out men and women with leadership and vision who can build the capacity of agriculture to ensure succession, sustainability and prosperity. We are working to bring together just such a group of individuals at four regional human resources (HR) forums and one combined national/regional HR forum, including all of Western Canada, being held between February and June 2010.
The national forum, which will take place in Calgary in June 2010, will provide a backdrop from which to showcase speakers who can provide insight and motivation related to leadership in business management, community involvement and best HR practices.
One of the speakers at the Atlantic regional forum in Moncton, Richard Strang, a potato producer, provided practical tips on how to hire and keep employees. He presented a series of business, management and leadership practices that have benefitted his operation. He spoke of a philosophy focused on running a business not a farm, the use of contemporary management practices such as competitive pay, an emphasis on recognition and team work and attempts to avoid staff lay-offs during slower periods.
Building on the work already completed, CAHRC has submitted a number of project proposals to Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) for funding. If approved, these projects would allow the Council to develop career pathways in agriculture as well as materials to assist producers in integrating sound management practices on farms. In addition, the Council is seeking to create resources that will enhance training within commodity groups and be accessible and relevant to today’s needs.
On February 5, CAHRC was invited to a round table with the Hon. Diane Finley, Minister of HRSDC. The Minister is meeting with key stakeholders across the country within the context of Phase Two of the Economic Action Plan. Minister Finley wished to consult with sector councils regarding the current and future economic and employment situation within the industries that they represent. She stressed the importance of the work being conducted by sector councils and indicated that she looked forward to working with them on an ongoing basis.
I hope you enjoy our most recent issue and
invite you to contact us with any comments or
questions that you may have about Field Notes.
Terry Murray, Eastern View Farms Ltd.
Wild Rose Agricultural Producers, Alberta