Robinson led the Canadian Federation of Agriculture from 2019 to 2023
By Diego Flammini
Staff Writer
Farms.com
A former president of the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) is Canada’s newest senator.
Mary Robinson, an Albany, P.E.I. farmer who led the CFA from 2019 to 2023, received her appointment from Governor General Mary Simon on Jan. 22.
Prime Minister Trudeau contacted Robinson last week to discuss a potential appointment.
"I'm quite relieved that I don't have to keep keeping the secret," Robinson told CBC News. "I have to say, I'm a little overwhelmed by the amount of calls and texts and emails and reach-outs that I've had... It's been really heartwarming and exciting."
With Robinson’s appointment, P.E.I. now has four representatives in the Senate. She joins Percy Downe, Brian Francis and Jane MacAdam.
Robinson is also the vice president of the World Farmers’ Organisation, a board member at the Canadian Centre for Food Integrity and a managing partner in her family’s farm business.
Her time in ag will help her advocate in the Senate, Trudeau said.
“Ms. Robinson’s experience in agriculture and business will bring an important perspective to the Senate, where she will be a strong voice for Atlantic Canada,” he said in a statement. “I look forward to working with her to make life better for Canadians from coast to coast to coast.”
Members of Canada’s ag community expressed congratulations to Robinson.
Keith Currie, who succeeded Robinson as president of the CFA, said on X he “couldn’t be more proud, pleased and excited at this announcement! Congrats Mary!”
Cathy Lennon, the general manager of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, called Robinson a “tremendous asset” to agriculture and rural Canada, and that “all of Canada will benefit from her participation and contributions” in the Senate.
“On behalf of turkey farmers in Canada, we welcome Mary Robinson to the Senate,” Turkey Farmers of Canada said on X. “Thank you for all your work on behalf of Canadian farmers and the agriculture industry.”
Farms.com has contacted Senator Robinson for comment on her appointment.