July 15, 2013
Following today’s federal cabinet shuffle, Canola Council of Canada president Patti Miller said she looks forward to an ongoing positive working relationship with Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Gerry Ritz, who will be continuing in his role in the new Federal Cabinet.
“Minister Ritz has focused consistently on innovation, market access and opening up international markets for Canadian canola”, said Miller. “These are the priorities of canola sector and we are committed to working with the new Cabinet to advance them.”
Canada’s canola sector is on track to achieve its goal of building sustainable international demand and production of 15 million tonnes of canola by 2015, creating economic growth across Canada. “We need predictable access to markets and continued innovation to maintain our competitive edge,” said Miller. “We will work with all Parliamentarians and with government officials to advance the canola sector.”
Miller also said that the Council looks forward to continuing to work with International Trade Minister Ed Fast, who remains in his post. With over 85% of Canada’s canola heading to export markets trade is critical.
The CCC is a full value chain organization representing the entire canola industry, including growers, seed developers, crushers and exporters. Canola is Canada’s most valuable crop, generating over $8.1 billion in farm cash receipts for Canadian farmers in 2012. It contributes $15.4 billion and 228,000 jobs to the Canadian economy each year.
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For more information, media may contact:
Debbie Belanger, Communications Director
Canola Council of Canada
204-227-5731
belangerd@canolacouncil.org
