TORONTO - On November 20 and 21, 2023, Ontario Pork’s Board of Directors were joined by producers from the Ontario Pork Leadership Development Training Program, to meet with Members of Provincial Parliament (MPP’s) and their staff.
The first day was highlighted by Ontario Pork’s annual Queen’s Park Reception, where members of the Board and producers were able to speak directly with elected officials from all parties and communicate the importance of the pork industry, while sharing several key issues of concern for Ontario’s pork producers.
MPP’s and their staff were also treated to a delicious pork lunch that was provided by a local farm.
Among the topics discussed:
- The need for investment in the pork sector to increase processing plant capacity in Ontario and to reduce dependance on processing in other jurisdictions.
- Enhancing emergency preparedness programs that protect animal welfare and industry infrastructure.
- Addressing labour shortages through the recruitment, training, and retention of workers.
- And the continued partnerships to increase funding for Risk Management Programs.
Producers also presented ideas on how the provincial government can support the pork sector’s commitment to measuring and reducing greenhouse gas emissions while conveying the importance of continued government partnerships that support research and development programs across the industry.
Ontario Pork was also pleased that Premier Doug Ford was able to attend the reception and provide remarks, where he expressed his government’s ongoing support for Ontario’s pork producers.
Ontario Pork greatly appreciated the time taken by MPPs to attend the reception as well as the individual meetings that occurred over the two-days.
We are grateful for the Ontario Government’s continued support of the pork industry.