Seller protection still a priority for the sector.Ottawa—A forward-looking approach is needed from governments to help the fresh fruit and vegetable sector cope with the uncertainties created by the pandemic and other challenges.That was message the Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) and the Canadian Horticulture Council (CHC) delivered to federal politicians and officials during their virtual spring advocacy event, Farm to Plate 2021.It replaced the traditional in person affair and also had to deal with the possibility of a federal election this year, which simultaneously brings government decision making to a halt and requires the sector to try to make sure its goals become part of party platforms."From the farm gate to the dinner plate, the fresh fruit and vegetable sector has been greatly impacted by COVID,” said CHC President Jan VanderHout. “Farm to Plate 2021 was a key opportunity for our members to relay the extent of this impact directly to decision makers and to have meaningful and productive conversations about what solutions are needed for our industry to function at full capacity again.”CPMA Chair Guy Milette said the event provided “produce industry members with unique opportunities to connect with their federal leaders and voice their concerns.” Discussions focused on “the challenges facing our industry and the government's actions that can ensure Canadians have consistent access to a supply of safe and nutritious fresh produce were well received. We look forward to collaborating with the government to position our industry for success as we transition out of the COVID-19 pandemic.”Jane Practor, CPMA's vice-president of policy ad issue management, said the two groups are planning to have their annual conference Fall Harvest conference this year to continue the discussions on various concerns included the pandemic's impact on many food service outlets as well as operations of farms as support for temporary foreign workers winds down.At the same time, they want to keep governments working with them on supporting the industry now and in the post-pandemic world. That includes a long-standing request for a financial protection mechanism for produce sellers, supporting industry's sustainability efforts, improving access to labour, and addressing growers' needs for crop protection.Proctor said there's also a need to ramp up work in Canada on developing sustainability measures that meet the ever-expanding international requirements for them. The industry is also looking for guidance on meeting various plastic-reduction measures and for better recycling of what they do use. “It would be a good time to have something in place.”Farm to Plate attracted 41 industry members from six provinces for sessions with more than 50 politicians and government officials.
Alex Binkley is a freelance journalist and writes for domestic and international publications about agriculture, food and transportation issues. He's also the author of two science fiction novels with more in the works.