The province is trying to better protect farmers and Ontario’s food supply.
Minister of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs Ernie Hardeman has introduced new legislation to crack down on those who trespass on farm operations.
Hardeman says if passed, the “Security From Trespass and Protecting Food Safety Act” will require explicit prior consent to access an animal protection zone on a farm or food processing facility.
The bill would increase fines for offenders as well as increasing protection for farmers against civil liability from people who were hurt while trespassing.
Officials say people who trespass on farms or food processing facilities pose a risk to farmers, their families and employees, as well as expose farm animals to stress and disease.
