Canadian Cattlemen’s Association News Release

CCA congratulates PM’s new cabinet

May 18, 2011

Calgary, AB – The Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) congratulates all Members of Parliament who were appointed to Prime Minister ’s Cabinet this morning in Ottawa.

The CCA is particularly pleased that remains with the Agriculture and Agri-Food portfolio and looks forward to continuing to work with the Minister on issues of importance to Canada’s beef cattle industry. Ritz was first appointed Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Minister for the Canadian Wheat Board in August 2007.

“Minister Ritz has worked tirelessly to improve market access for Canadian cattle, beef and other agricultural exports and we appreciate his efforts,” said CCA President Travis Toews. “The CCA will continue to press for improvements to our competitiveness both on the trade front and at home in our regulatory and business environment.”

A new face in another primary position of interest for the Canadian cattle industry is , as International Trade Minister. Fast replaces , who is now Government House Leader.

Minister Fast is a lawyer from the important agricultural Fraser Valley area of B.C. The CCA looks forward to working with him to establish important new trade agreements with Europe, Korea and Japan, as well as resolving formal beef and cattle trade disputes with the United States and Korea.

“Improving market access for Canadian beef and other agricultural products through removal of barriers and negotiation of new agreements are among the most important functions that Government can accomplish for improving the economic outlook of Canadian agricultural producers,” said Toews.

The CCA also congratulates Peter Kent, who will again serve as the Minister of the Environment. Minister Kent was named to the Environment portfolio in January 2011. The CCA will continue to work with Minister Kent to ensure that cattle producers continue to be recognized as a key component of the environmental solution. “As stewards of land and water resources, cattle producers provide habitat for wildlife and migratory birds and we have a significant role to play in sequestering greenhouse gases through grassland management,” said Toews.

We extend our warmest congratulations to returning Ministers.

For further information, contact: Gina Teel Communications Manager Canadian Cattlemen’s Association 403-275-8558 x 406 | [email protected] www.cattle.ca

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The National Voice for Canada’s Beef Cattle Industry, representing 83,000 Cattle Producers Visit www.cattle.ca