The Public Service Alliance of Canada, Quebec Region (PSAC-Quebec) learned this morning that Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is set to close its Research and Development Centre in Quebec City (Sainte-Foy). This decision affects approximately 30 members of PSAC-Quebec represented by Agriculture Union.
Sébastien Paquette, Executive Vice-President for PSAC-Quebec, had this to say about the facility’s closure:
- It’s disheartening. This lack of long-term vision will hinder sustainable farming and deprive Canadians of the evidence-backed research that informs agricultural policy over time.
- This decision is deeply troubling for affected workers and deals a blow to Quebec-based public expertise.
- Amid unprecedented tariffs and a growing imperative to protect our independence and food security, the government is cutting a centre that conducts vital research on how to enhance production and reduce environmental impacts in the dairy sector, among others.
- The facility’s closure is a concrete example of the effects of federal cutbacks, which are now curtailing research on agricultural productivity and sustainability in a cold, humid climate—the Centre’s focus.
An institution with a clear mission
The Quebec Research and Development Centre’s stated aim is to boost agricultural productivity and sustainability in a cold, humid climate and improve environmental performance through the development of field crop systems that incorporate perennial forage species.
Information for members
Affected employees are encouraged to reach out to their union representatives to learn their rights and options.