For immediate release:
Sept 27, 2004

Ontario BSE announcement falls short and late

Farmers may be waiting until Christmas before funding begins to flow

Simcoe – Haldimand-Norfolk-Brant MPP Toby Barrett says it could well be the new year before Ontario farmers see dollar one in their pockets from the Ontario government’s latest funding announcement.

While Alberta farmers saw their government immediately respond to a half-billion federal BSE funding announcement with close to a quarter billion in provincial funding, Ontario farmers were forced to wait two weeks before hearing Premier McGuinty announce $30 million that may not be available until Christmas time.

“While this is a good step, with applications and program details still to be released, many farmers will be making their Christmas purchases and holiday plans before the funding comes through,” said Barrett.

Barrett is joining with PC Agriculture Critic Ernie Hardeman in calling on the government to deliver funding in a more timely manner.

“In 1998, when the hog producers were in a similar crisis, our government was able to get cheques in the mail in 30 days,” said Hardeman. “The Conservative Caucus will push this government to get money into farmers hands as soon as possible.”

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For more information contact: MPP Toby Barrett 519-428-0446 or 1-800-903-8629