MPP Jones Demands Minister Defend Ontario Farmers

Queen’s Park – Progressive Conservative MPP Sylvia Jones (Dufferin-Caledon) called upon the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs to stand up for Ontario farmers.

The Liberal government set up the Ontario Tire Stewardship Program on September 1, 2009. As of this date, to replace a tractor tire larger than 39 inches in Ontario, it costs a farmer $250.20. In comparison, a new car tire only costs $5.84.

“These are discriminatory new fees being passed on to the agricultural community by the McGuinty Liberals,” said Jones. “It was expected when this program was developed by the Liberals that the fee would be passed on to the consumer. By levying these fees onto farmers, the Liberal government is hurting our agricultural community.”

During Question Period, the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs refused to answer Jones’ question, instead referring it to the Minister of the Environment. On the second round of questioning, the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs said point blank that farmers would not be exempted from the tire stewardship fee.

“Ontario farmers have a right to be concerned,” said Jones. “They have no choice but to pay this fee and the Minister responsible for Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs refuses to stand up and defend them. The Minister has proven yet again that she is not listening to the needs of farmers.”