The Ontario government is working to protect farmland across the province.
New legislation has been introduced, aimed at strengthening domestic food production, and protecting both farmers and the quality of Ontario’s food system.
Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness and Chatham-Kent-Leamington MPP Trevor Jones says if passed, the Protecting Ontario’s Food Independence Act will protect local ownership of provincial agriculture by creating restrictions on foreign acquisition of Ontario farmland.
“Our agriculture sector is a cornerstone of Ontario’s economy, employing more than 10 per cent of the province’s workforce and helping put food on tables at home and around the world,” Jones said in a news release. “In a time of global uncertainty, it’s vital we give our farmers and businesses the tools they need to succeed. With these changes, we are continuing to build a more productive and self-reliant agriculture and food sector.”
The legislation would also implement a number of measures to modernize, streamline, and improve regulations for the agri-food sector and reduce red tape for industry partners.
“We appreciate Minister Jones and the Government of Ontario for listening to our members and taking action to create a more equitable fee structure under the Beef Cattle Marketing Act,” added Jason Leblond, President of the Beef Farmers of Ontario. “This change addresses a long-standing gap and ensures all producers contribute fairly to efforts that help strengthen the sustainability and collective success of Ontario’s beef sector.”
Provincial officials say the policy is intended to prioritize Ontario farmers’ access to farmland and limit access for harmful foreign interests, while allowing for reasonable exceptions that will be developed following consultations with impacted stakeholders. Similar policies are already in place in other parts of the country, including Alberta, Manitoba, Quebec, Saskatchewan, and Prince Edward Island.
