Feds announce new tool to protect Ontario turkey producers

This week, the federal government announced funding of up to $559,285 to help Turkey Farmers of Ontario (TFO) finalize and launch a new insurance product to protect Ontario turkey producers from losses associated with outbreaks of avian influenza.

When fully implemented, this product will help bridge the gap in existing coverage. Specifically, it will cover economic losses resulting from the difference between compensation through the Canadian Food Inspection Agency for animals ordered destroyed and their full market value.

This may include incremental costs such as cleaning and disinfection, veterinary services, the disposal of feed, and other costs related to the resumption of operations.

This should help the turkey industry improve its resiliency and ensure Ontario producers are able to resume production as soon as possible when disaster strikes.

“The turkey industry has encountered numerous challenges over the past few years and this funding is very important for the implementation of an Avian Influenza Insurance Program,” says TFO chair Brian Ricker.

“This will protect not only turkey producers but by extension the poultry industry in Ontario.”