New Democrats call for adoption of national food strategy

Government must act now to guarantee Canadian food security

OTTAWA – New Democrats hailed recommendations from the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food, Olivier De Schutter, who concluded his 11 day visit to Canada today. Members of the Official Opposition urged Conservatives to act quickly on the proposals as soon as possible.

“Like it or not, the situation is bleak for millions of Canadians. Food security is a right. Hunger and malnutrition are unacceptable anywhere, but especially in a country as wealthy as Canada,” said NDP Aboriginal Affairs Critic, Jean Crowder.

NDP Agriculture Critic, Malcolm Allen, called on the government to establish a national food strategy.

“Canadians must have access to safe and nutritious food. The Conservatives are failing to guarantee this basic right – and are even making things worse as they cut funding to the Food Inspection Agency,” said Allen. “We need long term solutions and we need to adopt a national food strategy.”

Crowder added that immediate attention must be given to First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities, which are among the hardest hit by food insecurity. “It’s the least fortunate who must choose between paying their rent and putting food on the table. That’s not a choice Canadians should have to make.”

“The Conservatives must show leadership. The choice is clear, instead of funding their misguided priorities, they must ensure the food security of Canadians.” concluded Allen.