SASKATOON, SASKATCHEWAN--(Marketwire -07/31/12)- Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz today marked the eve of marketing freedom for Western Canadian wheat, durum and barley growers. Minister Ritz was joined by Senator Donald Plett, local Member of Parliament Kelly Block (Saskatoon Rosetown-Biggar) and representatives from the western grain industry to mark the countdown to marketing freedom.

"In just 12 short hours, the doors to marketing freedom will, at long last, be opened," said Minister Ritz. "The Harper Government has delivered on our long-standing commitment to give western wheat and barley farmers the same freedom to make business decisions that other farmers in Canada have long enjoyed."

The countdown to marketing freedom began today at Innovation Place in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. The location highlighted the potential for greater investment, innovation and competition for the western grain industry in an open market.

The Harper Government's top priority is the economy, and the agriculture industry plays an important role in creating jobs and keeping the economy strong. Canada is the world's fifth-largest exporter of agriculture and food products, with last year's exports hitting an all-time high of more than $40 billion.

"It's an exciting time as we look forward to the historic day tomorrow when wheat and barley farmers across Western Canada will have the full freedom to run their own businesses," said Senator Plett. "Marketing freedom will allow our hardworking farmers to achieve greater success by dealing directly in the marketplace."

Additional information on marketing freedom can be found at http://www.agr.gc.ca/freedom.

Excerpt from:

Countdown to Marketing Freedom Begins in Western Canada