HANSARD

May 13, 2010

Abattoirs Question

Mr. Ernie Hardeman: My question is to the Minister of Agriculture. Minister, last week during question period I pointed out that over 25% of the money that your government announced to help small abattoirs was never spent. According to Better Farming, you said you didn't spend all the money because there weren't enough applications, not enough demand. But ministry staff said there were more than enough applications. In fact, they cut it off after 48 hours.

Small abattoirs in rural communities across Ontario are closing or being closed because they can't afford to meet your regulations. One of the suppliers of our local food is disappearing and it seems you have given up on them.

Minister, are you so out of touch with rural Ontario that you believe the needs of abattoirs have been met? Let me assure you, from all the people we've been hearing from it's clear that problem is not solved. Will you finally apologize to the small abattoirs and fulfill your commitment?