Canadian produce industry making voice heard this federal election
Canadian produce industry making voice heard this federal election
On Oct. 19, Canadians will elect a new federal government. Newly elected members of parliament will be responsible for making decisions that will have profound effects on the produce industry. That’s why it is essential that the produce industry’s voice is heard. The Canadian Produce Marketing Association and the Canadian Horticultural Council are working together on a joint advocacy campaign to ensure that happens.
“In a close election campaign, it’s essential that candidates and parties are aware that the produce industry is paying close attention to their actions,” CPMA President Ron Lemaire said in a press release. “Every vote will be critical, and knowing produce industry voters are asking for political support will ensure they take notice.”
CPMA and CHC have identified two key issues for the sector: payment protection for the produce industry and increasing Canadians’ consumption of fruits and vegetables. While the two associations have been actively speaking with the main parties to advance industry interests for some time, they are encouraging industry members to reach out to their local candidates now to help to amplify that message.
“Political parties and candidates know that elections are won on the ground and that local issues matter,” Anne Fowlie, CHC executive vice president, said in the release. “Our industry faces risks that can easily be mitigated by the government of Canada — we need candidates to take notice now so that our voice is heard once Parliament is formed.”
Fact sheets on the two key issues have been prepared with key messages. Industry members are encouraged to share them with their candidates and ask them where they stand. They are also encouraged to write letters to their local newspaper and attend local events or debates to raise their concerns and ask questions.
CPMA and CHC will each be sending a questionnaire on a range of issues to the political parties to ask where they stand. Those answers will be shared with members and available on the associations’ websites. Further information on CPMA and CHC’s election activities and tips to reach out locally can also be found on the CPMA and CHC websites.
