For Immediate Release
March 15, 2007

MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT SUPPORTS PORK INDUSTRY

$250,000 In Funding Will Help Develop Business Strategy For Pork Sector

TORONTO - The McGuinty government is supporting Ontario's pork sector with funding to help develop a business strategy for the industry, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Leona Dombrowsky is announcing today.

"The McGuinty government is showing its commitment to rural families by working with Ontario Pork to ensure a fair and prosperous marketplace for this important sector," said Dombrowsky. "We recognize and appreciate the contributions of pork producers to the province's economy and the government is helping them to address the challenges facing the industry."

Minister Dombrowsky is making the announcement at the Ontario Pork annual general meeting. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade are each investing $125,000, for a total of $250,000, to help Ontario Pork conduct a comprehensive strategic analysis to ensure the long-term viability of Ontario's pork industry.

"Today's announcement is another component of our government's support for communities and industries facing economic challenges," said Minister of Economic Development and Trade Sandra Pupatello. "By forming effective partnerships, whether with the agricultural sector, manufacturing industries, or those involved in local economic development, we are working to build opportunity for Ontario families."

Ontario Pork represents pork producers in many areas, including hog marketing, consumer education, research, environmental issues, animal care and food quality assurance. According to Ontario Pork, it is estimated that total industry output from farm gate sales is worth $5.9 billion to the Ontario economy.

"We are pleased that the provincial government is supporting the pork industry," said Curtiss Littlejohn, chair of Ontario Pork. "This funding will help us prepare for changes, respond to challenges and reposition the pork sector in Ontario."

Other McGuinty government initiatives in support of farm families in rural Ontario include:

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Contacts:

Kelly Synnott
Minister Dombrowsky's Office
416-326-6439

Phil DeMont
Minister Pupatello's Office
416-325-6706

Brent Ross
OMAFRA Communications Branch
416-326-9342

Neil Trotter
MEDT Communications Branch
416-325-6716

www.ontariocanada.com