Grain Farmers of Ontario applauds royal assent of Bill C-18

GUELPH, ON (March 2, 2015) – Grain Farmers of Ontario commends Minister Ritz and the Government of Canada for moving the Bill C-18, the Agricultural Growth Act, into law.

“We are very pleased that Bill C-18 has received Royal Assent,” says Mark Brock, Chair of Grain Farmers of Ontario. “The changes to the Agricultural Growth Act harmonize Canada with UPOV-91, bringing us in-line with our competitors around the globe and allowing Canadian farmers improved access to agricultural innovation and technology.”

Of particular importance to grain farmers are the updated Plant Breeders’ Rights (PBR). The modernized PBRs signal opportunities for increased investments in plant breeding in Canada. For Ontario farmers, this will mean increased access to seed varieties and new seed genetics.

“Moving this bill into reality will help Ontario’s grain farmers remain competitive internationally while providing food and fuel for our province,” says Brock. “We thank all those involved in the amendments to Bill C-18 and we look forward to supporting the government with its implementation.” 

Grain Farmers of Ontario

Grain Farmers of Ontario is the province’s largest commodity organization, representing Ontario’s 28,000 corn, soybean and wheat farmers. The crops they grow cover 6 million acres of farm land across the province, generate over $2.5 billion in farm gate receipts, result in over $9 billion in economic output and are responsible for over 40,000 jobs in the province.

Contact:

Mark Brock, Chair – 519-274-3297; cropper01@hotmail.com

Meghan Burke, Communications – 519 767-2773; mburke@gfo.ca