Innovation, Business and Rural Development
September 10, 2014
Supporting Agriculture in Newfoundland and Labrador
$7 Million Provincial-Federal Investment Further Develops Cranberry Industry
Today, an investment of $7 million to further develop the provincial cranberry industry was announced by the Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister of Innovation, Business and Rural Development, and Senator Norman Doyle, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Regional Minister for Newfoundland and Labrador and Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency). The event took place at Berry Good Farms near Grand Falls-Windsor.
“Government’s significant investment in the cranberry industry demonstrates our continued commitment to building a strong agriculture and agrifoods industry in our province. This initiative is yet another example of an innovative solution that is diversifying the economy, reinvigorating communities and creating jobs in rural areas of the province. By supporting growth in the cranberry industry, we are also ensuring farmers have the assistance they need to reach a sustainable level of production.”
- The Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister of Innovation, Business and Rural Development
In total, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is investing $4 million in this initiative through the Departments of Natural Resources and Innovation, Business and Rural Development. The Government of Canada, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, is contributing $3 million.
“Our Government recognizes the importance of investing in industries that help develop a more diversified and robust economy, particularly in our rural areas. Today’s investment in the Cranberry Association of Newfoundland and Labrador will help to establish a commercially-viable industry, create economic benefits and spin-offs for the central region, and strengthen the province’s overall agriculture and agri-foods industry.”
- Senator Norman Doyle, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Regional Minister for Newfoundland and Labrador and Minister of State (ACOA)
Cranberry farming in Newfoundland and Labrador is a relatively recent development, starting in the late 1990s. The Provincial Government adopted a unique approach to development, establishing pilot sites throughout the province in collaboration with private sector partners. Growth in the industry has been positive.
“The Cranberry Association of Newfoundland and Labrador welcomes this announcement. We are looking forward to our role of continuing the development of the cranberry industry in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
- Fabian Power, President, Cranberry Association of Newfoundland and Labrador
The significant investment in the cranberry industry by the federal and provincial governments demonstrates the commitment to building a strong agriculture and agrifoods industry in Newfoundland and Labrador.
QUICK FACTS
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Media contacts:
| Jennifer Tulk Director of Communications Department of Innovation, Business and Rural Development 709-729-4570, 728-4104 jennifertulk@gov.nl.ca |
Fabian Power Cranberry Association of Newfoundland and Labrador 709-293-4808, 489-0468 |
| Kelsie Corey Director of Communications Office of the Honourable Rob Moore Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency 613-941-7241 |
Julie Afonso Acting Director, Public Affairs ACOA NL 709-772-2984 |
2014 09 10 11:50 a.m.