Date: October 20, 2011
OFA welcomes Minister McMeekin to agriculture
Premier McGuinty has declared that his focus for the 40th Parliament of Ontario is to “guide Ontario through global uncertainty by focusing on building a strong Ontario economy.” And he’s already begun construction with the recent announcement of the new Cabinet. Although it is a smaller Cabinet than past years (22 versus 28), the Ministers all bring significant experience.
The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) looks forward to working with all Cabinet members as we pursue the Premier’s goal of strengthening Ontario’s economy. We will work with key ministries to grow our industry and improve the lives of Ontarians. OFA will focus particular efforts with Environment, Natural Resources, Finance, Education, Economic development, Energy and Health Ministries.
OFA congratulates the newly appointed Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Minister McMeekin. He represents the Ancaster, Dundas, Flamborough and Westdale regions.
Minister McMeekin has worked with constituent farmers over his term of service and is familiar with the farm, and agri-food priorities. His Cabinet experience will help him promote the interests of Ontario’s agri-food sector, an important economic engine.
We also extend congratulations to all newly appointed Cabinet Ministers – especially Jim Bradley, Minister of the Environment; Dwight Duncan, Minister of Finance and Deputy Premier; Chris Bentley, Minister of Energy; and Michael Gravelle, Minister of Natural Resources. We look forward to working with Minister McMeekin and his colleagues on the wide array of files important to agriculture and agri-food to realize the Premier’s vision of a stronger economy and a caring society.
Although the new McGuinty government doesn’t bring a lot of representation from rural Ontario, OFA is confident that our new agriculture Minister will bring the necessary skills in listening, consensus building, the ability to keep a strong rein on the ministry and a desire for achievement along with the respect of Cabinet colleagues. The agricultural portfolio has gained a lot of attention in recent years and OFA looks forward to a new working relationship with all our ministries.
-30-
www.ofa.on.ca
