MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - May 2, 2016) - Dairy Farmers of Ontario (DFO) thanks the federal government for announcing its ongoing support and commitment to the Canadian dairy industry. Today the federal government announced its intention to work with the dairy industry to refine an appropriate mitigation package for market changes due to the finalisation of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) because it recognizes the importance of the industry to the Canadian economy. DFO is grateful the government continues to protect and defend the Canadian dairy system.
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, and the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of International Trade, today issued the following statement on the Government of Canada's commitment to the Canadian dairy industry:
"In anticipation of Canadian ratification of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and as part of the government's strong commitment to the Canadian dairy industry, we will move forward with a plan to help the industry adjust to market access concessions.
"An appropriate mitigation package is necessary for the Canadian dairy industry. Today we commit to meet with industry within the coming 30 days to obtain its views on the mitigation package. Our conversations will address, among other issues, transition support for producers and processors, as well as proposed program and investment options. The government remains committed to the supply management sector."
Further details are attached in the government press release.
The dairy industry contributes $15.8 billion to Canada's economy and $5.8 billion to Ontario alone. Maintaining the strength of Canada's dairy system is vital to the rural fabric of Ontario. This becomes highlighted as the global dairy industry struggles in countries without a strong diary system like that in Canada.
Ralph Dietrich, DFO Board Chair, says, "The industry is moving forward to implement a strategy to make skim solids competitive and encourage investment in modern ingredient infrastructure as soon as possible. With the dairy industry looking to modernize, today's announcement is very important."
"We appreciate the government's ongoing support of our industry and the need for investments in dairy modernization," added Peter Gould, DFO CEO and General Manager.
About Dairy Farmers of Ontario
Dairy Farmers of Ontario, a not-for-profit organization, is proudly owned and operated by Ontario dairy farmers. It is the marketing group for the largest sector of Ontario agriculture.
Website www.milk.org
Twitter @DairyOntario
Contact Information:
Graham Lloyd
Communications Manager
Mobile: 647-459-2943
Graham.Lloyd@milk.org
www.milk.org