May 27, 1998
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

Minister Aylward launches agriculture awareness campaign

Forest Resources and Agrifoods Minister Kevin Aylward hosted a reception today to launch the Newfoundland and Labrador Agriculture Awareness Campaign. The campaign, which is a joint venture between the federal and provincial governments, is designed to raise the public's awareness of the province's diverse agriculture industry.

"The province's agriculture industry is a major contributor to our economy. Direct farm sales reached a record high of $74 million last year," Minister Aylward said. "The value of manufactured agrifood products also continue to increase in 1997 with values over $300 million. Employment in the industry is estimated at 5,000 jobs."

"This campaign is an opportunity to celebrate what we've accomplished in agriculture and agri-food in Newfoundland and Labrador and to recognize the contribution the industry makes to rural communities, the economy and our quality of life," said Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Lyle Vanclief.

The campaign will start airing television ads this week and will follow with newspaper ads during the summer and fall.

Contact: David Wells, Communications, (709) 729-6183

      Sylvie Millette-Leduc, Press Secretary, Minister Vanclief's Office, (613) 759-1761

1998 05 27 4:00 p.m.