The federal government dealt a blow to Winnipeg's agriculture sector on Thursday, announcing the departure of 356 Agriculture Canada jobs from the city. The delivery of the AgriStability program, which tops up a farmer's income in a poor production year, is being transferred from Winnipeg to Kelowna, B.C., and Melville, Sask. Patrick Girard, spokesman for Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), told CBC News that employees in the farm income programs directorate (FIPD) and the financial controls and reporting division (FCRD) will be affected. It is anticipated that the transfer will result in 440 staff (356 in Winnipeg and 84 in Regina) being affected, said Girard. Employees were told Wednesday of the plan to move the program. Girard said the Winnipeg office will remain open but in a reduced capacity, while the Regina office will be closed by June 30, 2010.
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