Carleton University’s Initiative for Parliamentary and Diplomatic Engagement invites media to attend a lunch and special panel discussion – Does Canada Need a national Food Policy?
The Canadian food system accounts for 2.4 million jobs and nearly one-tenth of annual GDP, yet citizens face:
- Rising levels of food insecurity;
- Trade deals that provide many Canadian farmers with new opportunities but potentially reduce opportunities for others;
- A population boom in Aboriginal communities but shrinking access to traditional foods;
- A food-processing sector in decline, and;
- Rising levels of obesity in children.
To date, the government of Canada has addressed the food-related issues in silos, including separate agricultural, trade, health and Aboriginal policies. Prominent stakeholders advocate a more integrated approach: A food policy that integrates the relevant sectors and in which citizens can play a greater role in deciding the future direction of Canada’s food system.
Panelists Include:
- Terry Audla, president of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK)
- Michael Bloom, vice-president of organizational effectiveness and learning, Conference Board of Canada
- Diana Bronson, executive director, Food Secure Canada
- Ron Bonnett, president, Canadian Federation of Agriculture
Moderator: Peter Andrée, associate professor with the Department of Political Science, Carleton University
When: Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2013
11:45 p.m. – Registration and lunch
12:15 p.m. – Panel
Where: The Government Conference Centre, 2 Rideau Street, Ottawa
Registration is required by emailing: carletonrsvp@gmail.com
For more information visit: www.carleton.ca/parldiplo
Note: Simultaneous interpretation will be available.
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For more information
Steven Reid
Media Relations Officer
Carleton University
(613) 520-2600, ext. 8718
(613) 265-6613
Steven_Reid3@Carleton.ca
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