FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 27, 2004

[Woodstock]—Ernie Hardeman, Oxford MPP and the Progressive Conservative Critic for Agriculture and Food, was pleased to hear the government listened to farm organizations and members of the opposition when it finally announced it would produce its share of the 60/40 split in aid for the beef industry today in Guelph.

“This government can cut funding in 18 hours, but when it comes to putting money back into the pockets of farmers, it certainly takes its time,” said Hardeman. “The Premier should have been ready to announce this program as soon as the federal government put its funding on the table, but, just as with the Mature Animal Fund, farmers were left to go further in debt while waiting for the province to get its act together.”

Farmers around Ontario waited patiently, expecting to hear word from Minister Peters at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show or from the Premier at the International Plowing Match, but in each case they were disappointed.

“The government had the perfect opportunity to do what was right at either of these two large agriculture events,” continued Hardeman. “I find it interesting that the Minister being virtually shunned at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show had no effect on how fast the money was announced, but less than a week after the Premier received the same treatment at the Plowing Match, the money was suddenly forthcoming. It is very apparent the Premier doesn’t understand the plight of the farmer and made this announcement for political reasons. It is also apparent the Minister has little influence on decisions made in his own portfolio.”

Farmers now have to wait until applications and program details are released before they will be able to access these long awaited funds, things that were available immediately in other provinces. Some have estimated this process might take until Christmas.

“In 1998, when the hog producers were in a similar crisis, our government was able to get cheques in the mail in 30 days,” said Hardeman. “The Conservative Caucus will push this government to get money into farmers hands as soon as possible. The Premier shouldn’t need another massive negative reaction before he makes a move.”

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