Farmers Matter to Host Election Town Hall

Farmers Matter encourages farmers to engage politicians, learn platforms and vote for the party that best supports agriculture

Farmers Matter will host an election version of its Town Hall meeting out of the Stratford Rotary Complex in Stratford, Ontario on Thursday April 21, 2011 from 1:00p.m. to 3:00p.m.

Following on the heels of last November's phenomenally successful Town Hall Meeting with the Honourable Ralph Goodale and the Honourable Wayne Easter among local MPP's, farm organization representatives, and over 800 audience members, this meeting will do what Farmers Matter does best: raise awareness as to the importance of Canadian agriculture.

With 22 seats up for grabs in southwest Ontario, Wayne Easter, Liberal Agriculture & Agri-food Critic, will be at the Town Hall to present Canada's Liberal Party agricultural platform.

The Town Hall will offer attendees the opportunity to ask Mr. Easter questions concerning the Liberal party's direction regarding risk management programs, inter-provincial trade, food safety and labeling, and the sustainability of Canadian agriculture. Perth-Wellington Liberal candidate Bob McTavish will also be attending, along with fellow Liberal candidates from adjoining rural ridings. Farmers Matter is encouraging farmers and consumers alike to sign their on-line pledge (www.farmersmatter.ca/petition) indicating they will vote for the party that best supports agriculture.

Farmers Matter was created in July of 2010 in order that producers could voice their concerns and ideas for policy change that will support the sustainability of Canadian agriculture as well as offer solutions to short-term risks currently affecting their respective industries. Furthermore, they are looking to develop symbiotic relationships with the consumers who purchase their products by ensuring a safe, affordable and consistent supply of Canadian grown meat and produce.