Supporting Canadian Farmers

February 25, 2008

Canadians owe much of our heritage, prosperity and quality of life to the hard work of farmers.

Farmers are an important element of our national prosperity and a source of tremendous innovation. Throughout rural Canada, entire local economies are based around the work of farmers. The values that we associate with Canada —hard work, perseverance, and commitment to community— have their roots in our farming heritage.

It is important that all Canadians work with our nation's farmers to ensure that farmers can play a leadership role in our future every bit as strong as the leadership they have shown Canada in the past.

The Conservative Government is committed to ensuring that they can apply for and receive the support they need in an efficient and timely matter. The system must respond to the needs of farmers, never the other way around.

The challenges that farmers face are not new. Yet, for thirteen years, Canadian farmers were relegated to an afterthought by the previous Liberal government. Now, more than ever, the Liberal party under Stéphane Dion is fixated on urban special interests. They just do not understand or care about the real challenges that our farmers face each day.

Instead of hounding our farmers and treating them with suspicion, it is essential that government work with them to let them focus on what they do best. Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Conservative Government will always be standing on the side our nation's farmers. We understand that a strong future for farming means a brighter future for all of Canada.