With licensing and construction deadlines looming, the South Cariboo Meat Co-op’s Board of Directors has now set a firm date for a final decision on proceeding with our project to build and operate a provincially licensed red-meat abattoir in 100 Mile House. While Co-op membership share sales to-date has been significant, there is still a considerable shortfall that must be made up prior to initiating the construction phase.
Respecting the deadlines mentioned, our Board has designated April 12, 2011 for a final decision on proceeding. At this late stage and facing the serious risk that this extremely valuable initiative may not advance, permit us to be blunt: an additional 1,200 shares (at $100 each) must be sold prior to April 12th.
To date, we have consciously avoided promoting this project by dwelling on the negative implications of not having a local and readily accessible licensed abattoir. The urgency of the situation forces us to lay this out in plain language. The Meat Inspection Regulation dictates that all livestock for sale (farmgate or resale) in the province must be slaughtered in a government inspected facility. If the SCMCo-op fails in its bid to build and operate such a facility, no legal slaughter capability will be available within a 100+ kilometer radius of 100 Mile House. While Findlay Meats (present holders of an interim Class C license to slaughter) will be permitted to continue operating as a ‘Cut & Wrap’, the failure of this project will trigger the immediate loss of their license to slaughter. The negative implications for South Cariboo ranchers and small-scale livestock producers, their respective customers, local businesses that supply them and the broader economy of our community are profound!
If you have joined the SCMCo-op as a Producer or Community member, we thank you for stepping up and encourage you to purchase more shares as an investment. If you have not yet invested in this very valuable initiative, we urge you to do so. Like so many other South Cariboo accomplishments, the success of this important project is dependent on the support of many.
“Producer” members (livestock producers) are asked to purchase a minimum of ten $100 shares. “Community” members (any individual, association or business) can join with the minimum purchase of one $100 share. Both classes of membership may purchase up to a maximum of fifty shares ($5,000) as an investment. The shares are redeemable, pay annual interest (a minimum rate of 3% has been established) and are eligible for patronage dividends (profit sharing). On balance, they are an attractive investment in their own right with a modest risk level. Moreover, they are a great way to build capacity and resilience in our local economy.
Further information and Membership Application forms are available on our website at www.southcariboomeat.coop. If you have questions, or need more information prior to investing, please contact us at info@southcariboomeat.coop or 250-395-6775.
The Board of Directors
South Cariboo Meat Co-op
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