Collective Efforts Save Canada’s Organic Standards
OTTAWA – In a show of support for the Canadian Organic Industry, Minister of Agriculture, Lawrence MacAulay, announced federal funding in support of the Canadian Organic Standards. The announcement was made at a special event held at the Guelph Organic Conference on Friday January 26th. This contribution helps level the playing field for the Canadian Organic Industry and prepares it to better compete with key trading partners, such as the US and the EU, whose governments have continuously provided this type of financial support to their respective organic industries. This contribution also guarantees Canadians can continue to put their trust in the Canada Organic brand knowing that the organic standards that reinforce it are backed by the Government of Canada and the Canadian Organic industry.
On this recent funding announcement, Ashley St Hilaire, Director of Programs and Government Relations at Canadian Organic Growers responded, “The Canadian Organic Standards are the backbone of our entire organic industry. They define ecological agricultural practices that promote productivity, profitability, the protection of the environment, and the humane treatment of livestock. The Canadian Organic Growers are pleased to see the Government of Canada funding the Canadian Organic Standards, which will ensure continued consumer confidence alongside the long-term success of the Canadian Organic industry.”
After months of discussions, this new funding will ensure that the Canadian Organic Standards are reviewed and updated so that organic producers, handlers, processors, and manufacturers can remain competitive both domestically and abroad. This achievement for the Canadian Organic Industry is a result of the collective efforts of national and provincial organic organizations, hundreds of engaged individuals, and the Government of Canada, specifically the Department of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “We were inspired by the outpouring of support from COG’s members and our diverse Canadian organic community of consumers, farmers, inspectors, retailers, handlers, processors, equipment manufacturers and all the provincial and national organic associations. Numerous commodity associations added their voice to the campaign including Dairy Farmers of Canada, Pulse Canada, Maple Producers of Canada, the Canadian Horticultural Council and the Canadian Produce Marketing Association. Collectively, these individuals and organizations share in the success that we are celebrating today. When we come together like this, and work with our government officials, good things happen.” says Rochelle Eisen, President, Canadian Organic Growers.
Canadian Organic Growers (COG) is Canada’s only national organic charity with members in all regions of Canada. COG’s mandate is to lead local and national communities towards sustainable organic stewardship of land, food and fibre while respecting nature, upholding social justice and protecting natural resources.
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Press release: http://bit.ly/2Edq18R
