Government of Canada to Meet with Farmers to
Discuss Farm Income
(January 17, 2005 - Ottawa) As part of the
Government of Canada's commitment to addressing the issue of farm income
in Canada, Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture and Agri-Food with
special emphasis on Rural Development, Wayne Easter begins a two-week
cross-country consultation tour today to hear first hand the challenges
facing farmers.
Mr. Easter will meet with farmers between January 17 - 29 to get a better
understanding of farm income prospects and gather farmers' input on what
needs to be done to help producers earn more in the marketplace.
"Canadian farmers are among the best in the world. They are
efficient, they produce high-quality products, and they have the
leadership and vision to succeed at home and around the world," said
Mr. Easter. "By working together, we can find lasting solutions to
the farm income problem in Canada, and help ensure the future of Canadian
agriculture is as successful and accomplished as its past."
Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Andy Mitchell asked Mr. Easter to take
a lead role in this process, and to develop a report to be considered by
federal/provincial/territorial Ministers of Agriculture at their annual
meeting later this year.
"Farmers from across Canada have faced numerous challenges recently,
and addressing farm income means understanding what factors are affecting
the agriculture industry and determining the best ways for the industry to
respond," said Minister Mitchell.
For farmers and other agriculture industry stakeholders, information on
the federal government's examination of the farm income situation in
Canada may be obtained by calling Media Relations at 613-759-7972 until
January 19. After that date, they should contact Gordon Andrusiak at
613-759-7286. |
