Young and beginning farmers will have the necessary tools to strengthen Canadian agriculture well into the future with the continuing support of the federal government.
Parliamentary secretary to the Minister of International Trade Gerald Keddy, on behalf of Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz, emphasized the government’s continued commitment to helping young farmers succeed and drive Canada’s economy on the occasion of the Canadian Young Farmers’ Forum’s (CYFF) annual general meeting and conference.
“Our government’s top priority remains the economy, and Canada’s young farmers are key to a strong future for agriculture and a growing economy,” said Keddy.
“We will continue to create market opportunities and invest in new technologies so that young people are assured of a rewarding future in agriculture and drive our economy for generations to come.”
Recent government spending includes $1.2 million to the CYFF, $120,000 to Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers’ program, and more than $3 million over four years to the Canadian 4-H Council.
Support is also provided under Growing Forward business development programs, which fund provincial and territorial activities related to agriculture business management practices and skills development for young or new entrants to the sector.
“The Canadian Young Farmers’ Forum wants to energize the farm leaders of today and tomorrow,” said Justin Beck, CYFF chairman.
Guenette Bautz, general manager, added that the group is committed to working with young producers to ensure sustainability in the agriculture section.
“The CYFF will continue to work with government and industry organizations to remain focused on delivering seminars and providing networking opportunities to the young farmers of Canada,” Bautz said.
Recognizing that the industry’s success depends on agriculture remaining an attractive and profitable career option for young people, the government has invested $50 million in the new Agricultural Innovation Program, which is designed to help farmers turn good ideas into marketable opportunities. Young and beginning farmers are being consulted on the development of the next agricultural policy framework.
The CYFF is a national network created to assist young farmers with information and the exchange of ideas to ensure farming success in Canada.
For more information about the CYFF, visit www.cyff.ca.
