Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) members from coast to coast are in Ottawa this week to meet with government as part of the second annual National Grain Week which runs from February 26-28. This year鈥檚 theme, From Report to Reality, focusses on harnessing the recommendations in the Agri-Food Economic Strategy Table Report released in September 2018.
鈥淭his Report is an opportunity not to be missed for our industry,鈥� said Jeff Nielsen (Olds, AB), GGC Chair. 鈥淲e are excited about the future of grain farming in Canada and are ready to work with government to achieve success.鈥�
The Report lays out clear deliverables for government and industry aimed at supporting the growth of agriculture, agri-food and the Canadian economy as a whole. As a naturally innovative industry, agri-food is a growth driver and GGC members have been pleased to see the Government鈥檚 recent recognition of that fact.
鈥淚t is so important as farmers that we take the time to come to Ottawa and meet directly with government on a regular basis,鈥� said GGC Vice Chair Markus Haerle (St. Isidore, ON). 鈥淥ur sector has unique needs which focus on trade, innovation, infrastructure, and a strong regulatory environment; all of which are addressed in the EST report.鈥�
The Report is just one in a series of recent reports that acknowledge the agri-food sector鈥檚 potential including the Barton Report, Budget 2017, and the Fall Economic Statement from November 2018. The Government has a focus on growing the middle class, and, as key contributors to strong rural economies grain farmers are clear partners in achieving that goal.
In addition to government meetings, National Grains Week includes a Parliamentary reception on Tuesday, February 26th where Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Lawrence MacAulay will deliver remarks.
鈥淣ow that Canada is once again in a federal election year it is all the more important that grain farmers are vocal in our needs and advocate for our industry,鈥� added Shane Stokke (Watrous, SK), GGC Vice Chair. 鈥淲e are proud of what we contribute to the economy and look forward to working with government and our industry partners to ensure that Canada鈥檚 grain sector is sustainable and competitive for generations to come.鈥�
About Grain Growers of Canada
GGC provides a strong national voice for over 65,000 active and successful grain, oilseed and pulse producers through its 16 provincial, regional and national grower groups. As a farmer-driven association, GGC advocates for the federal government to take decisions that support the competitiveness and profitability of grain growers across Canada.
