Cowichan-Malahat-Langford MP Alistair MacGregor has submitted a comprehensive community report to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food on behalf of residents.
More than 120 local farmers, producers, and food security advocates contributed to the report that will be used to inform the development of A Food Policy for Canada.
“In creating this submission to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, it is clear that Canadians have thoughtful, informed, and hopeful suggestions for the future of our food and food systems,” said MP MacGregor. “It is also clear that how food is produced, processed, and consumed has important social, economic, and environmental implications. I believe we need to look at the whole picture and bring an integrated approach to federal policy that connects agriculture, rural development, health, and income security.”
On May 29, the Government of Canada launched consultations to support the creation of A Food Policy for Canada, which would be the first of its kind for the country. On June 16, MP MacGregor hosted an extremely well-attended town hall to gather community input that, along with written submissions from constituents, make up the bulk of today’s report.
“I commend the government for going forward with this process. New Democrats have had a vision for our food system for a number of years and are glad that the Government of Canada is moving toward that goal,” said MP MacGregor. “It is deeply important that the Minister takes careful consideration of these and other suggestions from Canadians across the country in drafting A Food Policy for Canada. It is equally important that once written, this policy be implemented with vigour and excitement and not left to collect dust somewhere.”