Letter Re: Maintaining Critical Agriculture-Focused Consulate Capacity in Denver and Minneapolis
October 8, 2026 | Documents
NCFA, along with industry partners, submitted a letter to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. We understand that these positions are housed through Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and are affected as part of broader Global Affairs Canada budget reductions, however, now is not the time to cut key roles that are integral to the positive relationship between Canada and USA, through agriculture. Canada regarding the proposed elimination of agriculture-focused consulate staff positions in Denver and Minneapolis.
We also recognize that the intent is for other consulate personnel to take on the agriculture portfolio as an additional responsibility. This is concerning, as the roles being cut were full-time positions with specialized knowledge, relationships, and day-to-day responsibilities. Their work cannot simply be absorbed by existing staff without a loss of capacity, continuity, and effectiveness.