Tuesday, June 07, 2011
The Canola Council of Canada (CCC) welcomes the commitment made in the federal budget of an additional $50 million over two years for agriculture research and innovation.
“Continued public research support is vital to the growth of the canola sector, and to the continued improvement of agronomic practices and quality of canola products”, said JoAnne Buth, president of the Canola Council of Canada (CCC), “We look forward to hearing more detail on the new Agriculture Innovation Initiative, but we welcome continued investment in agriculture innovation.”
The CCC is also appreciative of continued funding for market access initiatives under the Agri-Flexibility fund. “We support maintaining this fund for important industry-led initiatives,” said Buth.
The CCC continues to focus on the steps necessary to complete its objective of developing a strong biodiesel sector in Canada. The federal government has committed to a mandatory 2 percent biodiesel fuel blend by July 1, 2011, an initiative which will lower greenhouse gas emissions while providing a predictable market for canola producers.
The final regulatory steps to implement this commitment are underway. The canola sector is strongly advocating that this timeline be maintained.
The CCC will continue to call for federal support for the development of canola-based biodiesel production. “The 2 percent renewable biodiesel mandate will generate demand for canola. Our goal is to ensure that the jobs and value-added associated with biodiesel production are maintained in Canada rather than importing biodiesel.”
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Media may contact:
Jim Everson, V.P. Corporate Affairs
Canola Council of Canada
613-230-9990
