No new farm safety laws coming

The provincial government will not introduce new legislation this spring in spite of pressure fromfarm safety advocates.

"Very disappointing," said David Swann, the Liberal MLA for Calgary Mountain View.

Unlike other provinces, farm workers in Alberta are exempt from occupational health and safety laws and theyhave no right to refuse unsafe work.

There is also no legislation requiring their employers maintain Workers' Compensation Board coverage or child labour standards on farms and ranches.

"It's very consistent with a government that is dragging its feet to avoid offending or pushing higher standards in our industrial agriculture," said Swann.

In a written statement,the office of the Minister of Human Resources says the spring session of the legislature will focus on the 2013 budget.

The statement indicates the Minister will meet with stakeholders in the future to ensure the right regulations are in place.

Agricultural industry groups have raised concerns about the financial impact more regulation would have on small farm operations.