Partner Blog: The Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers’ Association has been advocating (OFVGA)

On April 25th, we had the opportunity to meet with an OLIP supporter and partner who plays a crucial role in Ontario’s economy and agricultural sector: the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (OFVGA). Mr. Gordon Stock, the OFVGA’s Senior Policy and Government Relations Advisor, led us through an insightful conversation about the work of the OFVGA and the major issues facing Ontario’s growers and agricultural sector. With Mr. Stock’s various experiences in the public sector, coupled with his own personal agricultural experiences and time with the OFVGA, we benefited greatly from his knowledge.

The OFVGA itself is one of Ontario and Canada’s oldest agriculture organizations. They are a nationally recognized not-for-profit association that advocates on behalf of Ontario fruit and vegetable growers and the edible horticulture industry. The 5 main issue areas for the OFVGA and their members include (1) Safety Nets, (2) Crop Protection, (3) Energy, (4) Property and Infrastructure, (5) Labour and Environment and Conservation.

Aside from the main issue areas of the OFVGA, the interns were interested in understanding developing challenges in Ontario’s growers’ industry, and potential solutions. These topics ranged from labour standards to business risk managements strategies, to environmental questions and the threats of climate change in the industry. Taking a forward-looking approach, the interns were also curious about the role of developing technologies, such as artificial intelligence and automation, on the sector. We also asked questions about both the concerns and potential benefits of foreign investment. Finally, we discussed the recurrent issue of overcoming the urban-rural divide into the context of Ontario’s political narratives with respect to agriculture.

A sincere thank you to Mr. Stock for taking the time to meet with the OLIP interns and for answering our many questions about the OFVGA and agriculture in Ontario. We are also deeply appreciative of the support that the entire OFVGA team gives to OLIP through their partnership.