Editor:
I am writing this letter to connect with the residents of Delta.
I come from the Brandrith family who are a pioneer farm family in South Delta. I live in the Cowichan Valley now and have been an advocate for farmers and food security for number of years.
Delta South MLA Ian Paton is the Agriculture and Food Ministry critic, and I am aware of how hard he works to support farmers and the agriculture industry province wide.
I have had the pleasure of hearing Ian speak to Valley farmers on several occasions. His ease among them displays the trust he has earned during his many years as an active Delta farmer and in his more recent position as MLA.
Farming is in crisis in B.C. Ian has listened to his fellow farmers across the province and brought their concerns into the BC Legislature time and time again. He has made little or no progress in raising government awareness and getting real concerns addressed.
On April 2, a meeting of the Committee of Supply took place. I urge you to listen to or read the entire proceedings.
Protecting farmland and supporting all aspects of the agriculture industry is critical for our very survival.
Sadly, the Minister of Agriculture and Food provided little or no assurance that real solutions were forthcoming. Grants, further studies, and expensive province wide educational workshops do little to secure B.C.s food supply into the future.
I would like to extend a hearty thanks to Paton for his hard work and dedication to farming and food security.
Ruth Wayte-Waddell
