Alberta working groups to start farm safety consultations next month

The Alberta government has set up six working groups to consult with farmers and ranchers on regulations for the controversial farm safety act passed in December.

The groups are chaired by people with mediation experience and will start their work next month.

"The six technical working groups announced today bring together a wide variety of voices to develop recommendations on how employment standards, occupational health and safety, and labour relations work in this unique industry," said Labour Minister Christina Gray.

• Alberta's Bill 6 taught NDP lesson on communicating with farmers
• Bill 6 passes 3rd and final reading in Alberta legislature

Agriculture Minister Oneil Carlier said no hard timelines have been set. Recommendations are expected by the end of the year, but groups could be given more time if required.

Carliercouldn't say when the regulations would be put in place.

"I'm hoping by spring to see that but we'll take the time necessary," he said.

The law, known as Bill 6 before it was passed, angered farmers and ranchers across the province over concerns it would threaten traditional family farms.

On Jan. 1, farms and ranchers had to start offering mandatory Workers' Compensation Board coverage to paid workers, who were also covered by occupational health and safety rules.

Widespread protests forced the government to exempt family members and children from the rules.

The working groups will discuss industry-specific issues that will be handled through regulations.