For Immediate Release
February 2, 2012
Simcoe – Haldimand-Norfolk MPP Toby Barrett has learned that Agricorp will once again waive reference margins for tobacco growers with a lost or reduced contract for the 2011 growing season.
Prior to Christmas, Barrett wrote to Agriculture Minister Ted McMeekin on behalf of the 60-plus tobacco farmers from his riding who were contracted to grow tobacco for True Blend in 2010. In that letter Barrett tells the Minister about the many tobacco farmers in Norfolk whose lives were put on hold due to issues surrounding a surety bond.
“Many of these 60-plus farmers were unable to grow because the bond was not activated to give them the necessary funds to grow, or they were unable to get a contract because of unsold tobacco in their barns from True Blend failing to meet their obligations,” Barrett explained.
“I am heartened to receive this letter from Minister McMeekin confirming Agricorp will waive the downsizing of reference margins once again,” he said. “I encourage farmers to contact Agricorp directly at 1-888-247-4999.”
Tobacco producers who are currently experiencing financial distress may also want to speak to an agent about an interim AgriStability payment.
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For more information please contact MPP Toby Barrett at 519-428-0446 or 1-800-903-8629