Appointments made to Farm Industry Review Board

Ed Byrne, Minister of Natural Resources, announced today the appointments to the Farm Industry Review Board. The Farm Industry Review Board was established through legislation that was passed in the House of Assembly during the spring 2005 session and replaces two previous boards � the Agriculture Products Marketing Board and the Farm Practices Review Board.

"We made the decision to combine the two previous boards to serve the best interests of farmers and the general public," said Minister Byrne. "This one board will now ensure a smoother and more efficient operation as the former boards were both involved in reviewing concerns associated with the agriculture sector."

Minister Byrne announced that Martin J. Hammond of St. John�s will serve a three-year term as the chairperson of the Farm Industry Review Board.

"Mr. Hammond brings a wealth of experience to the board having previously been involved with the Dairy Farmers of Newfoundland and Labrador," said Minister Byrne. "Mr. Hammond will provide solid leadership as the board undertakes its role in support of the agriculture sector in the province."

Joining Mr. Hammond on the board are: Violet Parsons of Bloomfield, vice-chair, three-year term; Rita Legge of Cartyville and Connie Stewart of Happy Valley-Goose Bay, both serving a three-year term; and serving two-year terms are John Dinn of Goulds and Wayne Ruth of Kippens, president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Municipalities. In addition, the legislation calls for a representative to be nominated by Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture and representing the federation for a three-year term will be Mervin Wiseman, the federation�s president. The board will be supported in its endeavors by Reg King, who will act as the board�s manager.

The mandate of the Farm Industry Review Board is outlined by the Natural Products Marketing Act and the Farm Practices Protection Act. Under the Natural Products Marketing Act, the board will act as an advisory board that will direct and control the direct operations of the provincial commodity marketing boards including the Dairy Farmers of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Egg Producers of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Newfoundland and Labrador Chicken Marketing Board.

Furthermore, under the Farm Practices Protection Act, the board will review agriculture-related nuisance cases filed by members of the general public and determine if a farm is operating according to acceptable farm practices.

"The agriculture and agri-foods sector in Newfoundland and Labrador continues to experience significant growth and therefore it is important that mechanisms are in place to protect those who make their living from the industry as well as the general public," said Minister Byrne. "I am confident the members of the board will deal with any concerns in an appropriate and timely manner."

Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications (709) 729-5282, 685-4624

2005 12 05                    3:20 p.m.