For release: November 23, 2005

Ontario Says Agriculture Needs A Better Solution
Financial Assistance Does Not Address Long-Term Industry Needs

TORONTO - Ontario's Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs made the following statement today:

"I am disappointed with the Federal government announcement made today by Agriculture Minister Andy Mitchell.

Today's announcement does not address the need to establish the stability in the agriculture sector that a multi-year strategy would address. Nor does it deal with the need for greater investment in research, innovation and marketing.

It is important that our federal counterparts have acknowledged the financial pressure facing grain and oilseed producers. We are looking for the federal government to participate in a comprehensive package that would provide additional dollars to address the current income problems throughout the agricultural sector as well as new investments for long-term prosperity.

Our government, along with the "Unified Voice" coalition, has been working on a plan that would better support the agriculture industry until the second Agricultural Policy Framework can be implemented in 2008. Ontario will continue to work with our farming partners to convince the federal government of the real need for their long-term support."

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Contact:
Chris Flavelle
Minister's Office
416 326-3072