The time is now to support Ontario’s agri-food system

By Keith Currie, President, OFA

There’s no denying Ontario’s agri-food sector has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Farmers across all commodities have been greatly impacted by this crisis and have experienced loss of market access, increased production costs, supply disruptions, processing challenges, and revenue loss.

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) understands commodities are facing urgent situations and without immediate government support, these farm businesses may face financial jeopardy. Moving products through the food value chain onto store shelves and into the homes of Ontarians is the priority of the agri-food system. Without the infrastructure and resources available, we are jeopardizing the reliability of access to safe, healthy, and affordable food products.

Ontario has an intensely robust and diverse agri-food sector as farmers grow and produce more than 200 different products. Significant labour shortages have impacted the growing season for many Ontario fruit and vegetable growers, including apple and tender fruit growers. Growers are still facing major labour gaps as many do not have a full contingent of employees available, including seasonal and temporary workers. 

The uncertainty and concern of the feasibility of the retail marketplace could greatly affect the sale of products. Social distancing guidelines and restrictions could prevent pick-your-own operations from opening, leaving many growers without financial stability.