UFCW the voice of food workers at “A Food Policy for Canada” Summit

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Ottawa – June 28, 2017 – UFCW Canada recently joined dozens of food activists and industry experts at the Infinity Convention Centre in Ottawa for the Government of Canada’s “A Food Policy for Canada” Summit.

The two-day gathering brought together labour and community activists, policy makers, and other key sector stakeholders from across the country to engage in meaningful discussions on Canada’s food policies and industry.

Exploring topics such as improving health and food safety and increasing access to affordable food, the Summit focused on building opportunities to shape and engage with the federal government’s recently announced initiative to develop a comprehensive national food policy.

At the event, UFCW Canada served as the leading voice of food and retail workers, ensuring that the interests and needs of those working in the food industry were represented and heard as part of the Summit’s wide-ranging discussion on Canada’s national food policy. UFCW also used the event as a chance to discuss the important work that our union is doing to bring dignity and respect to food workers throughout the country.

Through a wide range of presentations, breakout sessions, discussion panels, and networking events, participants discussed food policy changes, health and sustainability issues, and how we can strengthen our food labelling laws so that Canadians know where their food comes from.

Summit attendees also had the opportunity to directly engage with the federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lawrence MacAulay, who has been tasked with leading the development of Canada’s national food policy.

“As the leading voice for food workers, it is essential for UFCW to be at the forefront of discussions regarding food and food policy in Canada,” says UFCW Canada National President Paul Meinema. "Events such as the Food Policy for Canada Summit provide our union with an opportunity to share UFCW members’ concerns and stories, learn from others working in the food industry, and raise awareness of the essential role that UFCW Canada members play in the Canadian food production and retail sectors,” he adds. “It was a pleasure to be invited to this event, and our union looks forward to further engaging with the government as we work towards establishing Canada’s first-ever national food policy.”

As part of the federal government’s ongoing consultation on Canada’s national food policy, Canadians are being asked to share their thoughts on how we can improve health and food safety, increase access to affordable food, and strengthen our food labelling laws. You can have your say by completing the government’s online survey here. The survey closes July 27, 2017.