For Release: February 25, 2005

ONTARIO GOVERNMENT HELPS PROTECT GRAIN AND OILSEED PRODUCERS
Flows Funds Under Market Revenue Insurance Program

TORONTO - The Ontario government is supporting Ontario's grain and oilseed producers by flowing funds through the Market Revenue Insurance (MRI) program, Minister of Agriculture and Food Steve Peters announced today.

"We are providing Ontario's grain and oilseed producers with funding under our insurance program," said Peters. "We know how important this program has been, and we continue to work on a new generation of programs that better meet the needs of Ontario's producer while reflecting the goals of Agricultural Policy Framework."

The Ontario government is providing a total of $94 million for both 2003 and 2004. AGRICORP delivered final payments, totaling $6 million, for the 2003 crop year to participating grain and oilseed producers this week. The 2004 payments, worth $88 million, should be sent in March.

"We understand that producers need effective business risk management programs," said Peters. "I will be meeting with representatives of the grains and oilseeds industry next month as we explore options for supporting our farmers in the future."

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Contact:
Jamie Rilett
Minister's Office
(416) 326-6439
(416) 458-2610 (Mobile)