3 April 2007

2 minute read

North America

In a letter to OCA, Minister Dombrowsky stated that the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs recognizes the contributions of the Ontario Cattlemen's Association to enhance the provinces economic advantage through (its) branding initiatives, and that OMAFRA is pleased to assist OCA in continuing to serve the people of Ontario. "We appreciate this support from the Ministry," says Ian McKillop, OCA President. "The money will enable the regional marketing initiatives to expand to the next stage - something we are excited about. OCA is dedicated to responding to our grassroots requests and we are glad to be able to move the regional marketing initiatives forward."

Since mid-2006, based on input by grassroots producers, who asked for help in marketing local beef products, OCA has been holding regional marketing workshops throughout the province. The workshops, hosted by OCA and Mallot Creek Strategies, were presented to farmers and farm groups who are interested in, or already are engaged in selling their beef products through local avenues such as farmers markets - or even at the farm gate.

Minister Dombrowsky also committed an additional $200,000 to continue market development activities for Ontario Corn-Fed Beef.

"This funding shows a true commitment by the McGuinty Government and a willingness to work with industry," says Curtis Royal, President of the Ontario Cattle Feeders Association (OCFA). "It will help with delivery of the branded Ontario Corn-Fed Beef program."

"Both OCA and OCFA appreciate the strong working relationship that has been established with Minister Dombrowsky, and indeed the McGuinty government," says McKillop in conclusion. "The Minister has shown great support of the Ontario beef industry in the past and this announcement is further proof of that. We continue to enjoy a great working relationship with Minister Dombrowsky."

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