Consultations begin on Canadian Grain Commission's fees

The Canadian Grain Commission has launched a 30-day consultation on proposed changes to its user fees. The proposed fee changes, outlined in the user fees consultation and pre-proposal notification, reflect streamlined services that were included in amendments proposed recently to the Canada Grain Act. The amendments are part of Bill C-45, the Jobs and Growth Act, 2012. The Canadian Grain Commission's user fees have not been changed for the last 20 years, and as a result, it has relied on appropriations from government to fund operations. The user fee consultation will help develop a cost recovery structure that will maintain the Canadian Grain Commission's role in grain quality, quantity and safety assurance, producer protection and the integrity of grain transactions. The Canadian Grain Commission is proposing to implement a new fee schedule for August 1, 2013, the start of the new crop year. Farmers, farm groups, licensees and industry associations are invited to give their views on the proposed fee schedule; services, service standards and performance measures; and the potential impact on their operations. "The proposed fees are reflective of the proposed legislation before Parliament, which will ensure the Canadian Grain Commission's services reflect the needs of the industry. Your input will help us develop fair and consistent user fees, service standards and performance measures. This process will allow us to continue to deliver our services in the future," said Elwin Hermanson, Chief Commissioner. The deadline for comments is November 30, 2012. Comments can be sent by email, fax or mail.