SASKATOON, Saskatchewan, January 11, 2010 - Canada's canola farmers can look forward to better market access and profitability for their crops thanks to the Government of Canada's investment in the development of a comprehensive market strategy for Canada's canola sector, Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz announced today.
"Our Government knows that farmers will be key to Canada's economic recovery," said Minister Ritz. "Our Economic Action Plan is continuing to support Canada's recovery by investing in a targeted market access strategy that will make sure Canadian canola producers have full and fair access to international markets so that they can get more buyers bidding on their product."
This investment will help the Canola Council of Canada develop a comprehensive strategy that will open new markets as well as examine current legislative, regulatory and administrative trade barriers. The strategy will outline a rapid joint industry and government approach to be implemented when market access challenges arise as well as develop a strategy to avoid potential market access challenges. In addition, the strategy will highlight industry best practices which will help farmers boost their bottom line by meeting the standards of importing countries.
In addition to the Government's contribution, the Canola Council of Canada will contribute another $1.2 million for a total of $9 million.
Canola is a flagship product of Canada's agricultural sector and Canada's second most valuable crop, after wheat, contributing approximately $14 billion annually to the economy.
Funding for this project is subject to it meeting all eligibility requirements and the signing of a contribution agreement.
The investment will be made available via the Agricultural Flexibility Fund, part of Canada's Economic Action Plan. As our Government enters Phase II of our Economic Action Plan, our focus will remain on strengthening the economy, while working towards returning to balanced budgets and securing Canada's economic future.
For more information on Agriculture and AgriFood Canada's (AAFC) programs visit agriculture.canada.ca .
For more information on Canada's Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca .
For more information, media may contact:
Media Relations
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Ottawa, Ontario
613-773-7972
1-866-345-7972
Meagan Murdoch
Press Secretary
The Office of the Honourable Gerry Ritz
613-773-1059
