The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) participated in a virtual press conference, hosted by the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA), to address the unprecedented and extraordinary challenges faced by Canadian farm businesses due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mary Robinson, CFA President called on the federal government to prioritize Canada’s agri-food system to ensure that food supply chain remains secure and reliable in order for consumers to have access to safe, healthy and affordable food products.
According to OFA President Keith Currie:
With Ontario being a huge part of the Canadian agricultural scene, it’s of the utmost importance that the Government of Canada recognizes keeping food production system healthy and reliable through this pandemic
In addiction, he said:
“Governments need to recognize that investment now is needed for the long-term security of the agri-food system and continued food access for all consumers both now, and beyond the pandemic.”
OFA supports the position and message of CFA in requesting support from the federal government to keep the farming and food sector viable. The challenges and pressures resulting from COVID-19 continue to mount for Ontario farmers and the uncertainty of the situation could have a significant impact on the upcoming growing season.
Farm businesses and food processors need immediate assistance from the government to offset increased farm operation costs and deal with ongoing issues including labour shortages, market unpredictability, reduced meat processing capacity and increased farm operation costs.
OFA acknowledges and appreciates the financial support already announced by the government to assist farmers and food processors in implementing measures to accommodate seasonal agriculture workers with the mandatory 14-day quarantine. Additional resources and support is necessary to ensure Canadian and Ontario products continue to be produced, processed and distributed through our domestic food supply chain.
OFA encourages all Ontarians to speak up in support of the agri-food system and food supply chain by contacting your local MP and MPP. Tell your elected officials how much you value food access and food security to your overall health and well-being.
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