FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 6th, 2004

February 7th, 2004 is Food Freedom Day in Canada

(Lindsay) – Laurie Scott, M.P.P. for Haliburton-Victoria-Brock lends her support today to the Ontario Federation of Agriculture’s declaration that Saturday, February 7th, 2004 is Food Freedom Day.

According to the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, Food Freedom Day is the day of the year by which Canadians have earned enough income to buy their year’s supply of food.
“During this particularly difficult year for the Ontario agricultural community I would like to acknowledge, by drawing attention to Food Freedom Day, the importance of the local farmer to our economy.” Laurie said.

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture is calling on the provincial government to reduce the burden being placed on farmers. “Something as simple as a fair definition of agricultural use for property assessment purposes would go a long way to showing the farm community that this government has heard their concerns and acted on them.” Laurie said

650,000 Ontario workers depend on the agricultural industry for their livelihood. “ I hope that politicians of all Parties will support the symbol that this important day represents and work together to raise awareness within government of this vital economic sector.” Laurie said.

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