For release: August 12, 2004

NEW APPLE MARKETING BOARD UP AND RUNNING

FINGAL - Minister of Agriculture and Food Steve Peters introduced the newly formed 10-member Ontario Apple Growers marketing board at Van Brenk's Fruit Farm and Nursery today.

The board was established by a new regulation under the Farm Products Marketing Act as a result of a vote conducted in the spring of 2003 by the Farm Products Marketing Commission. Almost 72 per cent of eligible apple producers voted in favour of developing a new, regulated marketing plan. More than 65 per cent of eligible growers took part in the vote.

"Commercial apple growers now have an effective organization that allows them to speak with a single voice, provide for the future through research and education, and increase markets," said Peters. "We are committed to a sustainable apple industry that has the ability to compete and win in the global marketplace."

"The apple growers of Ontario are committed to working together, and the entire board is committed to helping the Ontario apple industry meet the many challenges we face - at home and internationally," said Jim Rickard, Chair of the new board. "It'll be one of the keys to our future success."

The directors of the Apple Growers of Ontario are:

Keith Wright, Essex, District 1
Steve Versteegh, Middlesex, District 1
Marshall Schuyler, Norfolk, District 2
Murray Porteous, Norfolk, District 2
Brian Gilroy, Grey, District 3
David Maxwell, Grey, District 3
Bob Bell, Hamilton, District 4
Art Moyer, Niagara, District 4
Jim Rickard, Durham, District 5
Steve Koning, Prince Edward, District 5

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Media Contacts:
Mary Devorski
Minister's Office
416-326-3077
416-606-8303 (Mobile)

Dave McLeod
Communications Branch
416-326-3029
416-420-5631 (Mobile)