The province has lost over 3000 farms since 2001. The average age of a farmer in Grey/Bruce is approaching 60 years. I was invited to speak at the recent graduation banquet at Chesley District High School where approximately 70% of the students come from working farms. When I asked how many graduates were planning on farming for a living, the answer was “likely none”. Unless we restore profitability to agriculture within five years, I believe we are looking at our last generation of farmers.

Health is an investment. Healthy citizens are productive, peaceful, creative, and giving; all things that help make a strong community. This investment comes back to society 100 fold over the years in the form of quality of life as well as dollar savings.

I’ve recently returned from my two week “circumnavigation bicycle tour” of the Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound riding, and what a trip it was! My trip began in Owen Sound on Aug 4th and wrapped up Aug.17th. 633 km and 35 communities later I can honestly say I’ll never be the same again.
A huge thank you to all who talked about your concerns and the issues affecting your communities at meetings and at your doors. The issues are many and varied. Here are some of the major ones you mentioned:

Policies Based on Values

At a time when our politicians say they can't be bound by three-year plans and businesses manage affairs quarter by quarter, the Green Party's decisions are firmly grounded in Ten Key Values. These values give us consistency, permanence, vision and stability in a turbulent world. The Green Party of Ontario shares these values with Green parties around the world.

Sustainability

Our activities are sustainable only if they can be continued without diminishing the opportunities and resources available to future generations.