This week, Dufferin Caledon MPP Sylvia Jones joined Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Ernie Hardeman and Dufferin-Caledon farmers and agribusinesses for a roundtable.
The purpose was to get feedback on proposed regulations for the Security from Trespass and Protecting Food Safety Act 2020.
The legislation was introduced to address concerns about food safety, biosecurity and farm families feeling unsafe in their own homes.
September 2nd the Ontario government had proclaimed a portion of the Act which prohibits stopping, hindering, obstructing – or otherwise interfering – with a motor vehicle transporting farm animals.
Jones says the participation from representatives from both the Peel and Dufferin Federations of Agriculture and the Dufferin-Wellington Christian Farmers helps Minister Hardeman to clearly define the provisions that will be included in the regulations and reduce the risks posed by on-farm trespass and to better protect Ontario’s animal and food supply chain.
Nearly 130 municipalities passed or supported council resolutions calling on the government to strengthen protections for farm families, employees and animals.
