GUELPH, ONT. — Carol Mitchell was named Ontario's new Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

The announcement was made on Jan. 18 at the Ontario Legislature by Premier Dalton James Patrick McGuinty. Beef production is one of the largest components in Ontario's agri-food sector.

Having served as parliamentary assistant to the minister of agriculture, food and rural affairs, Ms. Mitchell is well known to the Ontario Cattlemen’s Association (O.C.A.) and very familiar with the agriculture sector. Gord Hardy, O.C.A. president, is pleased with the premier's selection.

"Right now, agriculture is a challenging portfolio," he said. "We need programs and regulations that work for us if we are to continue to be a sustainable and profitable industry. Fortunately, Minister Mitchell represents a riding that is known for being one of the top beef-producing ridings in the province and we appreciate that the minister is already well-versed in our issues as she takes on her new responsibilities."

O.C.A. believes Ms. Mitchell will be a great champion for agriculture in Ontario. Beef producers in the riding of Huron-Bruce have always enjoyed her attention in listening and responding to their issues.

Formed in 1963, the Ontario Cattlemen's Association is a grassroots organization that represents the interests of Ontario's 19,000 cattle producers.