Western Barley Growers Welcome Marketing Freedom

CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwire -02/17/12)- Agriculture minister Gerry Ritz addressed the Western Barley Growers Association's 2012 Annual General Meeting today to highlight the economic benefits of marketing freedom for the barley industry.

"Our government has delivered on our long-standing commitment to give western Canadian barley farmers the marketing freedom they want and deserve," said Minister Ritz. "With the Marketing Freedom for Grain Farmers Act, western Canadian farmers can now decide how to market the crop based on what is best for their own business, all the while strengthening Canada's economy."

The Government of Canada remains focused on the economy, and strengthening Canada's barley industry will help create jobs and keep our economy strong. An open grain market attracts investment, encourages innovation, creates value-added jobs, and builds a stronger economy for all Canadians.

"The Harper Government's top priority continues to be the economy, in which the barley industry plays a vital role," said Minister Ritz. "With the global economy still very fragile, we continue to work on strengthening the agriculture industry, a significant driver of jobs and economic growth."

The Canadian Wheat Board is preparing for an open market and will be a viable marketing option for farmers. Western Canadian farmers now have the freedom to choose how to sell their products, whether that means selling on an open market or to the Canadian Wheat Board.

The Western Barley Growers Association has been a leader within the Canadian agricultural sector in support of marketing freedom and continues to work toward strengthening the barley sector.