Canada: The plebiscite on marketing choice for barley started

The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Minister for the Canadian Wheat Board, issued on February 7 the following statement regarding the government's plebiscite on marketing choice for barley, which began on Feb. 7, according to Canadian Government news room.

"I am happy to announce the plebiscite on barley begins in earnest today with the mailing out of the voter package. I said I would consult with farmers. Today we're delivering on that commitment, and I encourage eligible producers to vote.

"Canada's New Government is committed to moving forward in providing marketing choice to Western barley farmers, and believes that a strong Canadian Wheat Board should be one of those choices.

"Eligible producers will have a total of five weeks to vote between now and March 13, the final day for ballots to be postmarked. Eligible voters who have not received a package by February 15 should contact the election coordinator before March 2.

"I encourage all eligible barley producers to participate in the plebiscite to ensure that their voices are heard."

10 February, 2007