NFU-O Welcomes Meat Processors Capacity Improvement Initiative Announcement

The National Farmers Union – Ontario (NFU-O) welcomes an additional announcement made by the governments of Canada and Ontario committing up to $7 million to rapidly increase processing capacity in meat processing plants across the province.

“As a direct market pork producer, I am thrilled to hear that there is more government support to help these small abattoirs and meat processing businesses make improvements that will allow them to increase their killing and processing capacity.” Hilary Moore, Chair of the NFU-O Abattoir Working Group stated. “Right now, livestock farmers across Ontario are having to book animals up to a year in advance, while employees at the abattoirs work tirelessly to keep up. This is unsustainable for farmers and processors, especially as demand for locally raised meats continues to climb.”

“Ontario’s small and regional abattoir industry is in a crisis of under capacity as Ontarian’s demand for locally grown and processed meats is surging. This funding will help processors grow to meet that demand.” Tim Dowling, NFU Livestock Committee Chairperson, added.

The government has stated that through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, the second intake of the Meat Processors Capacity Improvement Initiative will provide up to $150,000 per project for handling and processing equipment to increase efficiency, productivity and food safety. It will also cover consulting and engineering costs associated with planning future projects. The intake will open for applications on November 19, 2021.

“The NFU-O applauds the governments of Ontario and Canada for investing in the meat processing sector at this critical time,” Don Ciparis, NFU-O President added. “The pandemic has highlighted the challenges in the sector, and the need to increase capacity to meet demand for locally raised meats.”

– For more information –

Don Ciparis, President, National Farmers Union–Ontario
donciparis@gmail.com, 519-785-0001