Understanding the perspectives, challenges and priorities of Indigenous producers can help strengthen their participation and support a more inclusive and resilient sector.
Today, Ginette Lavack, Member of Parliament for St. Boniface-St. Vital, Manitoba, on behalf of the Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, announced an investment of up to $160,545 for the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF), the National Government of the Red River Métis, through the AgriDiversity Program under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership to identify the needs and priorities specific to Red River Métis producers.
This funding will support the MMF in hosting community meetings with Red River Métis agricultural producers and agriculture professionals to share knowledge and discuss priorities. Surveys will also be conducted to gather information on challenges and priorities identified by the community. The information gathered will be used to develop "what-we-heard" reports that outline current concerns, potential solutions and a path forward for meaningful and sustainable participation in the sector that reflects Red River Métis values and traditions. The reports will also highlight the impact of Red River Métis participation in agriculture.
Through initiatives like the AgriDiversity Program, the Government of Canada continues to support Indigenous and other under-represented groups in addressing their unique needs in the agriculture sector.
