7 October 2011
Regina, Saskatchewan
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today celebrated the Alliance Grain Traders Inc.'s plan to build a new $50 million multi-purpose durum wheat and pulse milling facility in Regina. He was accompanied by Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture.
"Our Government remains focused on strengthening the economy. This includes working hard to create new opportunities for Western farmers," said Prime Minister Harper. "This significant investment in Regina is positive proof that the Government's commitment to opening Canada's grain markets is attracting investors that are generating new jobs and economic growth".
The new multi-purpose durum wheat and pulse milling facility is expected to generate 150 construction jobs and a further 60 full-time jobs when the plant is complete. Alliance Grain Traders Inc. already has 12 processing plants for pulse crops in Canada and is now constructing this facility - building on the new economic opportunities created by the Government's commitment to end the single-desk wheat marketing system.
An open wheat market would enable processors to more readily secure supply and allow farmers to customize their business plans to suit demand for specific quality or quantity. Most importantly, farmers and processors would be able to negotiate directly, cutting out costly red tape, administration fees and logistical inefficiencies.
The grain industry in Western Canada contributes significantly to the national economy. Canada is the sixth largest producer of wheat worldwide, with annual sales of more than $5 billion.
