HANSARD

November 30, 2009

MEMBERS' STATEMENT
AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY

Mr. Ernie Hardeman: I'm pleased to rise today to recognize the great work of the Ontario Agri Business Association and welcome them to Queen's Park today.
As you may know, the Ontario Agri Business Association is celebrating 10 years of service to the crop input, grain and animal feed industry. This sector provides essential products and services valued at over $5 billion to Ontario's 57,000 farmers.

The crop input, grain and feed industry plays a key role in the delivery of nutritious and safe food to Ontarians every day. During their visit to Queen's Park today, the association representatives have brought a reusable grocery bag filled with a sampling of made-in-Ontario food and consumer products that demonstrates the diversity and innovation of Ontario's agriculture, agri-business and food processing.

In many rural communities across this province, the local agri-business often serves as a focal point for the economy, economic activity and employment. Agri-business is an integral part of Ontario's rural infrastructure, our rural economy and our rural communities.

The crop input, grain and feed industry serves as the employer for over 8,000 Ontarians, with an annual payroll of more than $275 million. I want to thank all the agri-business representatives for coming to Queen's Park to update us on the state of their industry and share the concerns of their farms operating in rural communities across Ontario.

I hope that all the members in this Legislature will take time to visit their reception this evening in committee rooms 228 and 230 to learn more about Ontario's crop input, grain and feed industry.
Thank you very much for allowing me to present this statement on their behalf.