Laval’s six MNA’s – all members of the Quebec Liberal Party – are extremely pleased with their government’s announcement of a $9 million investment into the development of Laval’s organic agriculture sector.
Francine Charbonneau, Minister of Families, Minister responsible for Seniors, Minister responsible for Anti-Bullying, Minister responsible for the Laval region, and Quebec Liberal Party MNA for Mille-Îles, declared, “Our government has shown its commitment to encouraging and supporting organic farming, with a new growth Strategy for the organic sector which will allow local businesses to fully develop their potential for organic production.”
“Those who start up new organic farms and those who are converting to organic, as well as local businesses already operating as organic farms could receive up to $20,000 of financial support. This kind of financial aid will allow organic farms to grow, and the variety of locally-produced organic products will also grow,” said Fabre MNA, Gilles Ouimet.
According to Jean Rousselle, MNA for Vimont, “the government will provide $2.8 million over a three year period for organic businesses that are part of the Strategy. Financial aid will also be available under the program Prime-Vert, for already existing organic businesses and those converting to organic, as support and recognition of their organic farming initiatives.”
Ste-Rose’s MNA, Jean Habel, pointed out that “an amount of $550,000 is designated for the Institute for Research and Development of Agro-environment (IRDA) for applied research and development of organic crop production. This initiative will provide concrete solutions to the agricultural issues and technical problems that organic producers are currently dealing with.”
“Organic products respond to the consumer’s growing demand for fresh, high-quality products, as well as consumers’ concerns about health, nutrition, protecting the environment and animals, and supporting local businesses,” added Guy Ouellette, MNA for Chomedey.
“The organic sector brings economic vitality to our regions. It’s a measure of agricultural prosperity, and the development of the organic sector is excellent news for citizens of Laval,” concluded Saul Polo, MNA for Laval-des-Rapides.