Web-based AgPal Provides Agriculture Industry with Program Information

Farmers, agribusinesses and others involved in the agriculture industry can link directly to programs and services offered by the Department of Natural Resources Agrifoods Development Branch, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and Farm Credit Canada through the web-based AgPal.

“AgPal gives our clients who rely on the Internet quicker and easier access to information on agricultural programs and services,” said the Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Natural Resources and Minister Responsible for the Forestry and Agrifoods Agency. “I encourage our farmers, producers and others involved in the industry to visit the AgPal website to see how this initiative can be of benefit.”

The 95 programs that are applicable to Newfoundland and Labrador and located in the AgPal database can be accessed through www.nr.gov.nl.ca/nr/agrifoods/ or www.agpal.ca . Users select their province or territory to access information on managing their business, farming and food production, innovation and agricultural research, personal and community support.

“We are committed to helping Canadian farmers and agri-businesses across the country find the agriculture programs and services that meet their needs,” said the Honourable Gerry Ritz, Federal Minister of Agriculture. “AgPal delivers on this goal and we are pleased to have Newfoundland and Labrador join with us in providing the sector with tools that will help it to grow and continue to drive Canada’s economy into the future.”

AgPal is a collaborative effort between Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and the Department of Natural Resources. Information on 177 provincial and federal programs across Canada can be accessed through the website.

- 30 -

Media contacts:

2013 12 17                                     3:10 p.m.