Monday, November 28, 2022

Thompson unveils strategy


 Ontario Agriculture Minister Lisa Thompson has unveiled Ontario’ agriculture strategy – a combination of recently-announced initiatives such as updating the Ontario Veterinary Act, investing in supply chains and adding more trained workers.


She said “The Grow Ontario Strategy is our government’s plan to make sure the province’s food supply chain remains safe, strong and stable from farm to fork.


“This plan is a bold vision of pride and trust in the quality and quantity of food produced in Ontario, grown on the foundation of a competitive agri-food industry that serves the needs of Ontarians, Canadians and the world.” 


She re-announced a $10 million fund open to applications for supply chain projects such as updated inventory software, expanded warehousing to allow increased inventory levels or automation equipment to address labour gaps. She also re-announced a $25-million Agri-Food Procesasing Fund.


She said the Agricultural Research Institute of Ontario Act is up for review, as is the Ontario Veterinarians Act.


She said he province aims to increase total agri- food sector employment by 10 per cent by 2032, as well as increase awareness of modern, high-tech agri-food careers, opportunities for mentorship and hands-on job training.