Hardeman Announces a New Cost Share Intake Program for the Agri-Food Sector

Wednesday, 21 April 2021 12:53

The Agri-tech Innovation Program includes a $22 million cost-share program for the agri-food sector that will enhance workplace protection of workers against COVID-19.

WOODSTOCK - Local MPP and Minister of Food Agriculture and Rural Affairs Ernie Hardeman announced a new modernized cost share intake program for the agri-food sector.

This is part of a $25.5 million program to increase the adoption of technological innovations within the agri-food sector to enhance the health and safety of workers and improve the sector's efficiency and productivity.

Hardeman says the Agri-tech Innovation Program includes a $22 million cost-share program.

"This large investment is a significant step forward by our government in using innovative technology to guard against the spread of COVID-19 in agri-food workplaces and protect worker health and safety. Through the adoption of advanced agriculture technology, we're helping the sector find new and unique ways to address pandemic challenges while at the same time setting agri-food businesses up for future growth and success in modern agriculture."

Hardeman says the intake will support implementation of sector-specific, unique and innovative technologies in the workplace that enhance protection of workers against COVID-19.

"This is an investment in the health and safety of our workers for today and in our sector for tomorrow. Our government strongly encourages the adoption of technological innovations that protect workers in both large and small agri-food businesses, where the risks are highest and the impact of technology on modernizing these businesses will be significant."

Meat processing plants and big farms with migrant workers have had some of the hardest hit COVID-19 outbreaks in the Province.

The first intake will run from May 17 to June 21, 2021. Further details about the intake will be available through the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs website on May 17th.