The union that represents Quebec farmers is calling on the federal government to do more to protect them.
About 1,000 dairy and poultry producers marched through the streets of Montreal Thursday morning to demand better protection against foreign competition.
The farmers were quick to say that each of the federal leaders has shown support for Canadian and Quebec farmers, but they say more needs to be done.
For the past few years a new international argicultural trade deal has been in the works and the farmers are concerned they may lose some market share if Canada gives up the supply management controls that determine the price of many agricultural products.
Critics say those cartels are responsible for the high price of certain food items in Canada.
As one example, farmers say the decision to allow 17,000 tonnes of cheese made in the European Union into Canada was responsible for the loss of many jobs.
Now the United States is trying to also gain greater access to the Canadian dairy market.
Critics say if Canadian farmers want to maintain their market share, they should cut costs and become more efficient.
About 300,000 people work in the milk and poultry industries in Canada.
