YORKTON - Exceptions to rules are rarely the perfect solution.
Every time an exception is created it tends to put the spotlight on one of two things.
The first thing the need for an exception suggests that the base thing that the exemption is for is flawed from the outset.
And, when one sees an exemption it usually means someone or some group is being given a break others are not getting – and that ultimately isn’t likely to be the best thing either.
Which brings us to C-234, a private member’s bill that would remove farm propane and natural gas used to dry grain or heat and cool barns from carbon pricing.
This is one of those situations where the existence of C-234 speaks to the probability that carbon pricing itself is a flawed thing.
Certainly few in Saskatchewan would suggest the Liberal government has handled its carbon pricing policy very well.
You can of course make the argument the world needs to do something to effect some positive change in terms of our environment but does Canada largely going its own way when far bigger countries are doing little accomplish real change?
Or, is largely symbolic?
Of course being a world leader also has some merit worth considering, and it is a role Canada often plays.
So, we need to assign plenty of blame to how the federal government is handling the issue.
But, what about the private member’s Bill?
In Saskatchewan an exemption for on-farm propane and natural gas is widely supported, especially in the agriculture community, but it is still an exception.
If passed it’s good news for ag producers, but let’s not shy away from the reality it would afford farmers a benefit others aren’t in line to get.
If we remember the feds’ carbon policy is something of a ‘bugaboo’ anything which lends favour to one sector may not be applauded by everyone else.
In a world where farmers are a declining minority, forging alliances is a positive thing, and the exception will not help in that regard.
Someone in vote rich Toronto might not appreciate, understand, and ultimately care that an exemption for farmers makes sense – at least, of course to the ag community – so giving future support to farmers on any issue might be impaired.
Such are the pitfalls associated with exemptions. By nature they can create, or enlarge chasms between sides.
In this case the exemption might address question federal policy, but it’s still an exemption.
