Mr. Speaker, Farmers' Markets Canada will cease to exist if funding is not renewed this year. Thanks to federal help last year, this newly created organization was able to assist farmers markets right across the country. These markets help generate farm income and supply us with good quality food.
In my cross-Canada “Food for Thought” tour, the constant message I hear is that government needs to support local food initiatives as an important link in our food sovereignty.
I outlined my concern to the minister in my letter of December 19. No commitment was received.
I ask the minister today, will he commit to fund Farmers' Markets Canada in 2009 and when exactly will the money be available?