On July 26, 2012 Ernie Hardeman, Oxford MPP and PC Critic for Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, and Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry MPP Jim McDonell announced that they are releasing a survey to look at steps the government should take to support farmers in Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry and strengthen Ontario’s agriculture industry.

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Cornwall - July 30, 2012 - On July 26, 2012 Ernie Hardeman, Oxford MPP and PC Critic for Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, and Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry MPP Jim McDonell announced that they are releasing a survey to look at steps the government should take to support farmers in Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry and strengthen Ontario’s agriculture industry.

“We are committed to working with farmers to strengthen the agriculture industry,” McDonell said. “This survey will identify the challenges affecting farmers from different parts of the province and in different sectors. It’s part of ensuring that rural Ontario is represented at Queen’s Park and our farmers concerns are heard.”

With these results, Hardeman and McDonell will continue to hold the current government to account and develop policy proposals to strengthen the province’s agriculture industry.

“I’ve heard a lot from farmers about their concerns that over regulation is preventing the growth of their business,” said Hardeman. “To stay competitive against an ever-changing global economy, farmers must focus on growing top-quality food, not getting caught up in bureaucratic red tape. Through this survey, I hope to identify specific regulations that should be reviewed.”

This survey will give farmers the opportunity to articulate what they need to ensure their farm is competitive and sustainable.

Jim McDonell, MPP is inviting farmers to participate in the survey and share their concerns and experiences. Those who wish to share their thoughts can complete the online survey at www.ErnieHardemanMPP.com/agriculture. A hard copy can be requested by calling 613-933-6513 or e-mailing jim.mcdonellco@pc.ola.org.

“I hope that farmers will take this opportunity to share their views on what is required to strengthen Ontario’s agriculture industry,” said MPP Jim McDonell.