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Grain Farmers of Ontario congratulates new minister of agriculture Ted McMeekin

GUELPH, ON (October 20, 2011) – Grain Farmers of Ontario is pleased with the appointment of Ted McMeekin to the position of Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. 

Minister McMeekin has been a long time supporter of farmers in Ontario and an advocate for our Risk Management Program since the pilot program was introduced in 2007.  With his extensive experience as a minister, parliamentary secretary and in his municipality we are confident Minister McMeekin will be a strong leader for our agricultural industry.

“Our organization has many exciting new initiatives in market development and research that will benefit the province of Ontario,” says Don Kenny Chair of Grain Farmers of Ontario.  “We look forward to meeting with Minister McMeekin to discuss the many ways we can work together to ensure the success of the Ontario grain industry.”

Opportunities for market growth for Ontario’s grain farmers to discuss with the new minister will include a provincial bio-diesel mandate to match the federal two percent mandate announced earlier this year, a united strategy for research and market development, a Capital Cost Allowance acceleration for capital purchases and a tax credit for certified seed.

“Ontario’s grain farmers will be pleased with this announcement,” continues Kenny.  “Minister McMeekin is a supporter of his local farmers through a local food campaign and this support will now extend right across the province.” 

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.