26 August 2013

2 minute read

North America

"Our Government remains focused on creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity for Quebec’s agricultural and agri-food industry," said Minister Ritz. "Growing Forward 2 provides flexible, innovative programming for Quebec’s hard-working producers to ensure they have the tools necessary to remain competitive and expand into new markets."

"Quebec’s agricultural producers and food processors are among the best in the world." said the Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism, and Agriculture). "The Growing Forward 2 bilateral agreement recognizes that increased innovation, productivity and competitiveness are key drivers of Quebec’s agriculture and agri-food sector." Growing Forward 2 reflects the renewed commitment by the federal, provincial and territorial governments to ensure the productivity and profitability of Canada’s vast agricultural sector. By giving priority to innovation, competitiveness and market development, the programs of Growing Forward 2 are designed to help the industry reach its full potential.

"The Growing Forward 2 agreement we have concluded has the necessary flexibility to allow Quebec to develop its own unique programs to support its agricultural and agri-food sector," said Mr. Gendron.

Quebec will use the amounts committed under the agreement to implement eight major types of programs for the agricultural and food processing sectors. These programs are focused on the following areas: agri-food research and innovation; the environment; support for businesses; diversification and development of nearby markets; support for sector development projects; traceability; adaptation of businesses; and assurance systems relating to food safety, biosecurity, traceability and animal welfare.

Close to $27 million in federal funding will go towards the Prime-Vert program announced by Quebec on May 10, 2013. The two governments will also provide close to $90 million in support for agriculture and agri-food businesses and for the delivery of consulting services to promote their improved performance.

The details of the other programs will be released at a later date.

In addition to investments in strategic initiatives, Growing Forward 2 maintains the existing business risk management (BRM) programs. The federal and Quebec governments will continue to offer ongoing funding for a suite of BRM programs, namely AgriStability, AgriInvest, AgriInsurance and AgriRecovery, to ensure that producers are protected from market fluctuations and natural disasters. These programs will be managed, as before, by La Financière agricole du Québec.

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