Ontario Cutting Red Tape for Livestock Farmers

Giving Farmers a Voice on Decisions That Matter to their Businesses

November 27, 2018

News

Thorndale – Ontario's Government for the People is taking action to help livestock farmers by cutting red tape, reducing their regulatory burden, and decreasing unnecessary expenses and paperwork so they can fully participate in seasonal agricultural fairs.

"We're taking action to help cut red tape and costs," said Ernie Hardeman, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. "We're proposing changes that ensure livestock farmers can save money, and fully participate in business opportunities and important events like seasonal agricultural fairs, without the burden of unnecessary regulations."

Ontario recognizes the challenges that farmers face daily from unnecessary red tape and expenses, and has committed to working with them to strengthen the agri-food and agri-business sector. The Province has heard the concerns voiced by farming families who are confused about requirements under the Health Protection and Promotion Act. The proposed regulatory changes would reduce paperwork and fees for livestock farmers by eliminating the requirement for rabies immunizations for certain livestock at seasonal agricultural fairs.

"We are pleased to see the government working to reduce red tape and find a good balance between the interests of Ontario's livestock industry, with the responsible management of rabies," said Keith Currie, President of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture. "This change will ensure that farmers' and 4-H'ers can exhibit their livestock at fairs without this unnecessary regulatory burden."

The proposed amendments are now posted on the Regulatory Registry, with comments accepted until December 10, 2018.

To read the full list of proposed changes and provide your feedback, please visit: ontario.ca/dmke

Jeff Wigle, Director of Communications, Minister's Office, 416-326-3067
Bianca Jamieson, Communications Branch, 519-826-3145


For more information:
Toll Free: 1-877-424-1300
E-mail: ag.info.omafra@ontario.ca