FEBRUARY 23, 2021 - CELEBRATING CANADA’S AGRICULTURE DAY A CHANCE TO REFLECT ON THE IMPORTANCE OF CANADIAN AGRICULTURE AND GOOD GOVERNMENT POLICY TOO. By Virginia Labbie This year, Canada’s Agriculture Day is set for February 23rd. Canada’s Agriculture Day was the brainchild of Ag More than Ever and was initiated as a way to celebrate agriculture and foster a closer connection between consumers and those in the farming and food sectors. A lot has changed since last year’s Agriculture Day and I can’t think of a better time than now to celebrate the important contributions of those who work in Canadian agriculture. We all know the challenges that COVID-19 created for everyone in the supply chain. 2020 was difficult for many in the agriculture sector and shone a light on our food supply system. Remarkably, our food supply chain adapted fairly well during this very difficult time and Canadian consumers have recognized the importance of our safe and reliable food system.
After the year we’ve had, who is not ready for some positive news and to celebrate the importance of our farmers and food producers? I can’t tell you how proud I am to work in the agriculture industry and advocate on behalf of our agri-business members for the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB). I have been amazed at the stories of how many of our agriculture members have persevered through this unprecedented global pandemic. The challenge is that things are not back to normal quite yet and the reality is that many small businesses across Canada are struggling to survive. It is hard not to forget that due to public health restrictions, many of our restaurant and hospitality businesses are contemplating permanent closure or are struggling to keep their doors open. According to CFIB’s latest dashboard for the hospitality sector, only 11 per cent of small businesses are fully open, 10 per cent are fully staffed and only 9 per cent are making normal sales.
26 MEAT BUSINESS PRO 26
February March/April 20214
2019 | 100TH ISSUE
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