More government funding is being earmarked for supporting agri-businesses in Ontario and strengthening public trust in the food supply.
The federal and provincial governments are investing $7.5 million through the Biosecurity Enhancement Initiative to support 365 projects that will help the province’s farmers, food processors, and essential farm-supporting agribusinesses protect their operations against pests and diseases.
“Keeping our food safe while applying best management practices is vital to ensuring Ontario’s agri-food system continues to thrive,” said Lawrence MacAulay, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food in a news release. “These projects will help enhance biosecurity along our supply chains so we can keep feeding Canadians, and the world.”
“Maintaining and strengthening Ontario’s world-class food safety system is the number one priority for this ministry,” said Rob Flack, Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. “This initiative builds on our government’s consistent record of enhancing the resilience of Ontario’s food supply chains and boosting our standing as a globally trusted producer of agri-food commodities and goods.”
Farmers, processors, and select farm-supporting agri-food businesses were eligible for cost-share funding between 35 per cent and 50 per cent, depending on the project category. Supported activities include the implementation of technologies that reduce the spread of animal and plant diseases and capital upgrades that enhance biosecurity, such as isolating facilities and wash bays.
“This funding plays an important role in protecting the health of our livestock, ensuring the long-term sustainability of our industry, and maintaining confidence in the safety of Ontario-produced pork,” added Tara Terpstra, Board Chair of Ontario Pork. “By investing in biosecurity, we are strengthening our farms and safeguarding our food system against potential threats.”
