‘Now more than ever’

Dear Editor:

I have learned that Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) plans to close seven federal agricultural research facilities across the country, as well as the Organic and Regenerative Research Program. Over 600 staff will be affected.

We live in the most populated part of Canada with some of the richest agricultural land in the country. But I grew up knowing almost nothing about where my food came from, other than what I saw in books or along the roadside.

I have learned in the past 15 years by living on a farm and making friends with farmers that growing food is one of the hardest, loneliest, least appreciated professions one can have in Canada and yet the survival of every Canadian relies on access to food. 

In these turbulent times, we need more local food security, not less. Agricultural research allows the continued development and sharing of essential knowledge, skills and hands-on expertise to keep our country thriving into the future. My daughter is currently taking environmental studies at university, and I want her future to have mentors and work opportunities to help grow these programs that our people will be depending on for generations to come.

These seven agricultural stations across Canada should remain open. Sustainable and effective farming solutions, organic farming and soil health are vital now more than ever. We cannot afford to rely on private corporations to protect our public good. 

The federal government should be investing in these research  facilities, as well as providing other real rewards to sustain our farmers (i.e. – tax breaks, incentive programs, better pensions).

Please consider signing the online House of Commons petition e-7214 before April 3 or send an email to agriculture minister Heath MacDonald.

Rebekah Jamieson, 
Guelph