OTTAWA, ONTARIO, CANADA — An appeal to block a new law ending the Canadian Wheat Board’s (CWB) monopoly was turned down by the Canadian courts on Feb. 24, allowing the Marketing Freedom for Grain Farmers Act to be law.

Justice Shane Perlmutter of the Court of Queen's Bench of Manitoba, the highest trial court in the province, dismissed an application for an injunction by eight former wheat board directors against the act.

"Western farmers are pleased with the Court’s decision today," said Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. "Our government knows that producers need market certainty as they move forward and this decision allows farmers the best possible opportunities to succeed as they transition to an open market."

The Marketing Freedom for Grain Farmers Act is now law and farmers can forward contract their wheat and barley with buyers of their choice for delivery beginning Aug. 1. The CWB also remains a viable, voluntary marketing option for farmers of all commodities in all parts of Canada, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.

"We are working with farmers, the grain value chain, the CWB and provincial partners to ensure an orderly transition to a dual-marketing system that encourages entrepreneurs to seize new markets, increase sales, and drive the economy," Ritz said. "The Harper Government remains focused on doing what is best for the agricultural sector by giving farmers the right to choose how they market their grain."