Ontario farmers and their organizations are seeing changes at the top of the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food (OMAF) as Hon. Steve Peters moves to Labour and Hon. Leona Dombrowsky moves from Environment to Agriculture.
“The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) is grateful for the guidance and support Minister Peters provided for agriculture during some very difficult times for the industry,” says OFA President Ron Bonnett. “We didn’t always agree with Minister Peters, but his honesty and openness allowed for a productive working relationship.”
“OFA has had fruitful relations with Minister Dombrowsky during the same time as her work with the environment focused on nutrient management regulations, a major issue for farmers. She has demonstrated a good knowledge of agriculture, and has been understanding of its needs and circumstances,” Bonnett says.
“Because agriculture has ties to the labour ministry, we’re hopeful Minister Peters’ experience with and knowledge of farming will benefit Ontario’s farmers as they encounter labour-related issues in the future,” Bonnett says.
“With these changes to the provincial government, Ontario agriculture is hopeful Premier McGuinty and his Cabinet will strive for improved relations with the industry,” Bonnett says. “Agriculture is a complex industry, with new issues coming forth daily. We need to know our government’s leaders understand and are prepared to work with us as we plan agriculture’s future.”
~Ron Bonnett~
President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture