In my years as a farmer and now as Minister, I've met many young people who are passionate about a future in farming, and it's inspiring. But as you know, farming is no easy business and it needs young people with new ideas and an innovative spirit.

Helping farmers succeed is a high priority for this Government, and so is recognizing the value of their contribution to the health and well-being of Canadians and our economy.

Our young farmers know first-hand about the passion, innovation and determination that go into being successful in this challenging and rewarding field. We must do a better job at getting young people into the industry and guiding them through the obstacles that farmers often face. We must keep educating young people, and especially urban dwellers, about the importance of agriculture if we're to keep the sector vibrant.

Young people are both consumers and potential farmers. I'm proud to say that our Government puts "Farmers First" in all our agriculture policies. First and foremost, we're helping farmers make their living from the marketplace, not the mailbox.

To do this, we've partnered with industry to open and expand markets for Canadian agriculture here at home and abroad.

When times are tough and farmers are faced with weather disasters or disease, our Government has the domestic programs in place to help them get back on their feet. We've developed a "youth lens" to ensure that the views of young farmers are considered when we're developing new policies and programs.

We've also dedicated a website section to young and beginning farmers with information on programs and services available to them.

It's about giving young farmers the resources and tools they need to play a leading role in shaping the future of agriculture for the better. The fact of the matter is -- we need more young people taking over the farm. If we can work together to create a brighter future for the agriculture industry, I have no doubt young farmers will be eager to carry the torch.

Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz