Manitoba Pork Council was caught completely off guard by this week's announcement a temporary pause on new hog barn construction would be imposed.


The moratorium is in place until the Clean Environment Commission completes its review of the N.D.P.'s water protection plan.


Council Chairman Karl Kynoch is very concerned the hog industry is being unfairly targeted by government.


He adds water quality is an issue which must be dealt with by every industry, not just agriculture, and especially not just the hog sector.


Kynoch feels the economic impact of the move will be huge, especially on the businesses which would be involved in constructing or expanding hog barns.


He stresses Council will be taking every opportunity to speak with the province to resolve this issue.