Premier Danielle Smith has floated the idea of pulling Alberta out of Canada’s supply management system, claiming “our cows deserve the free market too.” The statement, made during an unscheduled appearance at a rural luncheon, reportedly came between bites of a locally sourced cheese platter.
“Albertans are tired of Ottawa setting milk prices like it’s Soviet Russia,” Smith said. “It’s time our dairy industry moo-ves into the future.”
Critics warn abandoning supply management would devastate rural farmers, destabilize prices, and flood the province with cheap American Velveeta. Supporters, however, say it could lead to “cheaper cheese and freer cows.”
One Holstein, speaking anonymously, said she fears the chaos. “We’re not built for price volatility.”
When asked about the risk to Alberta’s farmers, Smith smiled and said, “Freedom’s never free, and neither is butter—but maybe it should be.”
Dairy farmers are reportedly stocking up on antacids and lobbying pamphlets.
