Opinion

Cattlemen can speak for themselves

by Matthew Wright

Historically, one doesn’t even have to look outside the boundaries of Manitoba to see that many organizations attempting to represent a variety of differing interests ultimately render themselves ineffective. The failures of the Manitoba Farm Bureau and the Manitoba Federation of Agriculture are but two examples of this.
The rise of individual commodity associations over the years now means that farmer’s concerns are once again given priority in a previously watered down system of so-called across the board representation.

Given the shape of today’s global economy and the very nature of our business system, as specialization grows, it is illogical to think that what’s good for Tom is good for Harry.

General organizations have often tried to strike a balance in an effort appeal to the overall membership. Unfortunately, sometimes this middle of the road approach means backing away from issues that although are important to some, are not important to all. This stance not only renders the umbrella group unproductive, but meaningless. You’ve heard the saying “You can’t please everyone all of the time”, but when you are on the short end of the stick the majority of the time, you begin to wonder about the time and money invested in being a team player.

The same goes for the Manitoba Cattle Producers Association. Coincidentally celebrating its 30th year, the association has finally placed itself in a position that it can represent the interests of the approximately 10,000 cattle producers in Manitoba more effectively in relations with the government, industry and media on a provincial level than it has ever found itself.

Nationally, the MCPA’s membership in the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association assures that Manitoba cattle producers concerns are being heard on Parliament Hill.

That is not to mean there is no room for a common approach.

There are often times when mutual issues arise and a common front be adapted as long as respect between the various stakeholders exists. Respect for an individual’s needs and concerns. What’s good for Tom may not always be good for Harry but as long as they understand the basic adage of putting oneself into another’s shoes, that respect can exist and cooperation in areas of mutual concern can be fruitful.