Four out of five seed industry groups that have been in discussions to amalgamate say they’re planning to go ahead with forming the national seed industry group without the Canadian Seed Growers Association.
Pending approval from each of their members, they say Seeds Canada could be up and running as soon as February 2021.
Five seed sector organizations have had discussions over the past five years to form Seeds Canada, those being the Canadian Plant Technology Agency (CPTA); the Commercial Seed Analysts Association of Canada (CSAAC); the Canadian Seed Growers’ Association (CSGA); the Canadian Seed Institute (CSI); and, the Canadian Seed Trade Association (CSTA).
While four of the five groups approved the amalgamation in August, the CSGA’s members did not vote in favour of the proposal, which required unanimous approval from all five groups.
On Tuesday, the remaining four groups announced they will update the Seeds Canada ratification package, and hold another round of membership votes on whether to move ahead without the national seed grower certification agency.
While the CSGA is no longer part of the discussion, the remaining groups say they’re still aiming to provide value and a platform for seed growers, while alluding to possible involvement of provincial associations.
“While there may be one less amalgamating partner, the vision for Seeds Canada to become the voice of the seed sector, including seed growers, analysts, and the seed trade, remains the same. The goal is for Seeds Canada’s membership to include national and provincial seed associations, as well as seed growers from across the country. Growers play an integral role in the seed system, and Seeds Canada needs their involvement to succeed,” say the four groups in a joint statement.
Related:
- What’s next for Seeds Canada after the CSGA voted “no”?
- Canadian Seed Growers Association votes against joining Seeds Canada