Townhall Focuses On Farming

By Corey Fischer

Aug 1, 2018 | 4:46 PM

The MP for North Okanagan Shuswap has new insights into issues facing the the agriculture industry

Mel Arnold says over 50 people came out to a townhall on the issue Tuesday night in Armstrong.

He says there was some concern about the North America Free Trade Agreement, and other trade talks.

Cannabis was also a topic of debate over whether its production should be permitted on Agricultural Land Reserve land.

“One local mayor commented on the pressures local governments face and the need to amend the provincial Right to Farm Act to address cannabis production,” says Arnold.

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Supply management was also discussed with attendees speaking both in opposition and in favour.

“One attendee, a local dairy farmer, expressed the need for greater education around supply management to address misconceptions and increase public awareness,” says Arnold, who adds he is open to considering all information surrounding the effects of supply management.

Arnold was raised on his family’s dairy farm in Notch Hill.

“It was positive to see a wide range of sectors from the agricultural community represented, as well as local governments from within the North Okanagan-Shuswap,” said the MP. “I value the thoughtful input that was provided, and as Member of Parliament for this riding, I will take the messages constituents shared with me back to Ottawa.“

Arnold says it was great to connect with farmers and other concerned citizens to discuss the agriculture sector

“The gathering was very productive and informative, and I look forward to hosting more public forums in the near future to discuss matters of importance to the constituents of the North Okanagan-Shuswap.”

by Corey Fischer