Gerry Ritz Reappointed as Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.

[joedales]

CFA Welcomes Return of Ritz as Minister of Agriculture




OTTAWA - The Canadian Federation of Agriculture extends its congratulations to Gerry Ritz on his reappointment as Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, following the swearing-in of the new federal cabinet today.


Over the course of the 2011 election, Canadian farmers were pleased to see a number of commitments in the Conservative platform correspond with farmers' requests, including long-term planning addressing the need for a National Food Strategy and a commitment to research through the proposed Agriculture Innovation Initiative. CFA was also pleased to see the government has committed to maximizing opportunities for both domestic and export markets and has promised to continue to work closely with industry in the development of Growing Forward II.


"CFA and its members are eager to continue working with Minister Ritz and the government. We believe his experience and his relationship with the CFA will ensure we work together in developing a strong and effective suite of agricultural policies and programs," commented CFA President Ron Bonnett.

"Issues we would like to see at the top of the agriculture agenda include making necessary changes to Growing Forward II before its expiration date in 2013 and working with industry in the development of a National Food Strategy - an initiative begun by the CFA, " added Bonnett.


Concerning international trade negotiations, CFA expects Canada to maintain its balanced trade position at the WTO and bilateral free trade negotiations. On environmental issues, farmers are asking for strong Environmental Farm Plans and recognition of the ecological goods and services they provide.



Other key issues include an ongoing funding commitment to on-farm food safety programs, clarification of 'Product of Canada' labeling and increased investment in research and development.


The CFA would also like to emphasize the importance of working in true partnership with farm organizations. When dealing with the Canadian Wheat Board, the CFA urges Minister Ritz to listen to producers and implement the mandate decided by farmers, as farmers' should decide the role and structure of their marketing approach.


CFA also looks forward to working with the Ministers in other agriculture-related portfolios, including: Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade; Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport; Peter Kent, Minister of the Environment; Christian Paradis, Minister of Industry and Minister of State for Agriculture; and Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health.

[joedales]

Alberta Barley Commission applauds reappointment of Minister Gerry Ritz
Calgary, AB (May 19, 2011) – The Alberta Barley Commission is pleased with the reappointment of Saskatchewan MP Gerry Ritz as Canada’s Minister of Agriculture.
“The Alberta Barley Commission has been impressed with Minister Ritz’s commitment to building Canada’s agriculture industry,” says Commission Chair Matt Sawyer, a barley grower from Acme, Alberta. “As farmers, we enjoy working with a Minister who has an agriculture background and a real respect for farmers.”
Sawyer also expressed confidence in Minister Ritz’s ability to handle the transition to a new grain marketing system
“These are exciting times and it’s good to have a steady hand at the wheel,” says Sawyer. “Yesterday’s announcement that the Conservative government will be ending the Canadian Wheat Board's monopoly on marketing wheat and barley in 2012 means that change is coming. I’m encouraged that the industry is leading this change in a cautious and responsible manner.”
Moving to the proposed dual marketing system will require changes to legislation, which are expected to be introduced this fall.
“Our goal is to have a smooth transition to the new system,” explains Commission CEO Mike Leslie. “Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s decision to keep Minister Ritz in Agriculture indicates his understanding of the complex nature of the transitions required in agriculture. We look forward to working with Minister Ritz on this and other initiatives.”
These other initiatives include international trade agreements, a railway service review, ensuring long term financial support for institutions such as the Canadian International Grains Institute and the Canadian Malting Barley Technical Centre, and modernizing the Canada Grain Act.
Canada’s only barley commission, the Alberta Barley Commission is a not-for-profit organization directed, funded, and controlled by the province’s 17,000 barley producers. The Commission coordinates and sponsors research, market development, technology transfer and policy development on behalf of its producers.

[agstar77]

Yeah, one hand clapping.

[riders2010]

What is the other hand doin?.......Nevermind don't want to know lol lol had to say it, sorry!

Maybe it s shaken the hands of the losers that lost the election seat but won the loser senate appointed chamber lottery! What a crock of crap that is.

[agstar77]

It is probably illegal, but par for the course for this self righteous bunch.

[katoe]

and they are just getting started

[Choice2U]

So, how does it feel to be going up hill for once in the past 60 years. I am finally on the down slope and it feels good!!!!! I am not counting my chickens yet because you winey socialists can still use my wheat sale money against me if or until the whole thing burns.