Supporting New Tech for Tubers
News Release
April 22, 2016 – Newtown, PE – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
A third generation farming operation in central PEI is looking to help their potatoes reach new markets. The McKenna family of Country View Farms is seizing an opportunity to improve productivity and energy efficiencies by investing in new technology.
The Honourable Wayne Easter, Member of Parliament for Malpeque, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), today announced a business loan to support the state-of-the-art upgrades to storage facilities at Country View Farms. A new ventilation system will allow for safer storage of the potatoes, improving disease resistance and preventing rot. The enhancements will also reduce the need for spraying fungicides.
The Government of Canada, though ACOA’s Business Development Program, is supporting this project with a $135,500 repayable contribution.
Quotes
“Agriculture is a pillar of the economy of PEI, as potatoes from its rich soil reach markets around the world. The Government of Canada is pleased to help farmers adopt new technologies to improve productivity and meet the demands of the industry.”
- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister Responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
“So many businesses rely on the primary industries and in PEI that close connection is something we celebrate. It’s heartening to see a local farming family access ACOA programs to improve their operation and the value of their product, furthering their contribution to the Island’s food strategy.”
- The Honourable Wayne Easter, Member of Parliament for Malpeque
“Farming businesses must make ongoing investments in new technology to keep up with operating standards of the day, and support from the Government of Canada is necessary for the industry to continue moving forward. We’re grateful to be able to access ACOA’s Business Development Program to help with upgrades.”
- Greg McKenna, Country View Farms
Associated Links
Contacts
Christopher Brooks
Acting Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-566-7569
Greg McKenna
Country View Farms
902-887-2417
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