Agricultural Growth Act passes Second Reading

Improvements for agriculture sector will bolster competitiveness for Canada’s farmers

June 18, 2014 – Ottawa, ON – Government of Canada

Important legislation that will help Canada’s farming industry grow their markets at home and internationally passed the Second Reading in the House of Commons yesterday.

The Agricultural Growth Act (Bill C-18) will provide farmers with greater access to new crop varieties, financial programs and trade opportunities. It will expand the use of new approaches that are focused on preventing plant and animal disease and on making agricultural products safe for humans and the environment. The Act will modernize nine statutes that regulate Canada’s agriculture sector to bring them in line with the latest farming technologies and international practices.

The Act is expected to go before Standing Committee in the fall.

Quick Facts

• Canada’s agriculture and food exports brought in a record $50.5 billion to the country’s economy in 2013.
• Exports account for 85 per cent of sales for Canadian farmers.

Quotes

“Our Government understands that a strong farm gate is critical to the success of the Canadian economy. This legislation contains important measures that will give Canadian farmers greater access to the tools they need to remain competitive both at home and abroad.”

Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz

Associated Links

• News Release – Harper Government proposes changes to support agricultural sector growth through modernization
• Backgrounder: Agricultural Growth Act: Supporting Canada’s agriculture industry through effective government
• Questions and Answers: Agricultural Growth Act: Updating the Plant Breeders’ Rights Act in Canada

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Contacts

Media Relations
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
613-773-7972
1-866-345-7972

Canadian Food Inspection Agency
613-773-6600

Jeff English
Director of Communications
The Office of Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture
613-773-1059