Agricultural youth program launched

Young-adult Canadians now have a voice when it comes to the agricultural industry thanks to a new program launched this year and has started accepting applications.

Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Marie-Claude Bibeau has started the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council.

Bibeau said the program is to encourage young Canadians to get involved in the decision-making process.

“The young women and men in Canada’s agriculture and agri-food sector have a valuable perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing them. I am very proud to be launching the first Canadian Agricultural Youth Council because we need to bring the voices of these young women and men to the table and ensure that they take part in the decisions that affect their future. I want our young leaders to share their vision with us and help implement it.”

The program will be made up of Canadians from across the country between the ages of 18 to 30 with a background in the field, including representatives of Indigenous communities.

The council will meet twice a year, while also having online sessions throughout the year. Members of the council will be able to sit in on discussions and attend government and industry events.

They will also be able to share their ideas and give advice on issues regarding sustainable agriculture, marketing diversification, intergenerational transfers and more.

Minister of Diversity and Inclusion and Youth, Bardish Chagger said the program will provide new voices and new ideas.

“Including the voices of young people is essential as we build an even better Canada, now and for the future. Members of the first-ever Canadian Agricultural Youth Council will be able to share their ideas on how to bridge the generational gap and keep the Canadian agriculture and agri-food industry strong for years to come.”

The application deadline is Feb. 14. The online application can be found at www. agr.gc.ca/youth