With signs and cowbells, New Brunswick farmers protest cuts to veterinarian services
Posted Jun 3, 2026 04:40:39 PM.
Last Updated Jun 3, 2026 04:43:14 PM.
FREDERICTON — Hundreds of New Brunswick farmers have gathered outside the legislature to protest the provincial government’s decision to privatize veterinary services for large animals.
Holding signs, ringing cowbells and playing music, farmers called for the Liberals to reverse the cuts that they say will harm their livelihoods.
Premier Susan Holt’s government says the cuts will save the province $4 million annually as it tries to address a $1.4-billion deficit.
Reno Poirier, a cattle farmer, says large-animal veterinarians provide an essential service that’s crucial to the health of his cows.
Poirier says farmers would agree to pay some of the costs to keep the publicly funded service going.
Mike Bouma, with Dairy Farmers of New Brunswick, says overhead costs would make serving rural parts of the province hard for private veterinarians.
Bouma says he hopes the Liberal government has a solution to fill the gap.
“If these guys don’t have a plan that makes sense, yes, we’re screwed,” he said.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 3, 2026.
Eli Ridder, The Canadian Press
