Political Party Leaders Invited to Debate Food, Farm Issues

May 16, 2014

By Amanda Brodhagen, Farms.com

Ontario’s political party leaders have been asked to participate in a debate on food and farm issues.

Invitations were sent to Kathleen Wynne (Liberal), Tim Hudak (Conservative), Andrea Horwath (NDP) and Mike Schreiner (Green) party leaders. Notices were sent out May 14.

The request comes from the province’s largest farm lobby group – Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) and the Alliance of Ontario Food Processors. If all the leaders agree to participate, this will mark the first debate (at least in recent memory) that will be dedicated solely to discussing agriculture, food and rural issues.

“The agriculture and food industry is Ontario’s number one employer and a major driver of the economy, generating more than $40 billion annually,” the release said.

An offer has been made to broadcast the debate live on TVO’s The Agenda. Steve Paikin has agreed to moderate the event. Candidates were asked to RSVP in a timely manner so that a date could be set.

Ontario voters head to the polls June 12, 2014.

Video: How Swine Nutrition Can Revolutionize Biogas Production - Dr. Felipe Hickmann

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Felipe Hickmann from Laval University explores how nutritional strategies and manure management impact biogas production in pig farming. He breaks down the science behind anaerobic digestion at low temperatures and explains how dietary adjustments affect methane production and environmental sustainability. Learn how producers can reduce emissions and improve resource efficiency. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Lowering crude protein can reduce nitrogen in manure, but only if animal intake doesn’t compensate by increasing feed consumption."

Meet the guest: Dr. Felipe Hickmann / felipe-hickmann-963853a6 is a PhD research assistant at Laval University, specializing in swine and poultry sustainability. With extensive experience in manure management, nutritional strategies, and precision livestock technologies, he contributes to improving environmental outcomes in animal agriculture.