Mr. Speaker, people across the planet will be celebrating World Food Day on October 16. Today, the Friday before Thanksgiving, our Conservative government, in conjunction with the Canadian Federation of Agriculture, is celebrating Local Food Day.
Canadian farmers provide some of the most affordable food in the world. However, they face a significant challenge in the amount returned to the farm gate. Studies show that only 27% of a family of four's weekly grocery bill goes back to the farms where the food was produced.
Choosing locally produced foods reinvests in local economies and local farmers. I urge Canadians to choose locally produced products when they plan this year's Thanksgiving menu.
On behalf of the Government of Canada, I would like to extend to all Canadian families, especially the people of Pitt Meadows—Maple Ridge—Mission, a happy and joyous Thanksgiving and an informed Local Food Day.