OTTAWA – Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) is pleased to announce they have successfully concluded the rejuvenation of the organization with the election of a new Board of Directors and officers at this week’s semi-annual members’ meeting in Ottawa. This completes a process started last January to ensure that GGC truly was the united voice of Canada’s grain farmers.
Jeff Nielsen of the Alberta Barley Commission was elected Chair of the renewed organization with Markus Haerle of Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO) and Shane Stokke of the Saskatchewan Flax Development Commission (SaskFlax) serving as Vice Chairs.
“I am proud to have been elected Chair of the new GGC,” said Mr. Nielsen. “Our members have worked hard over the past year to build a strong framework for an organization that will be a strong farmer voice here in Ottawa. I appreciate their continued support and look forward to what the next year has in store.”
GGC celebrated significant achievements this summer with the addition of three new members, filling gaps and meaning that GGC represents 65,000 grain farmers from all provinces from coast to coast.
“GFO derives significant value in being part of a strong voice that speaks for grain farmers,” said Mr. Haerle. “Since joining the organization this summer we have seen first-hand the benefits of speaking in Ottawa with one voice as we advocate for policies that support the competitiveness and profitability of grain farmers.”
Previously, GGC was led by a President, Vice-President, and an Executive Committee with each member organization having a seat on the Board of Directors. Following the Strategic Review a framework was developed to streamline decision making and empower the advocacy committees to build consensus and develop policy positions.
“Grain farmers have an important story to tell on the national stage,” said Mr. Stokke. “GGC has a history of being a strong voice for farmers, but the expanded membership, stronger mandate and new governance structure will help us better serve Canada’s grain farmers.”
Source : Grain Growers of Canada