The MPP for Perth-Wellington says labour shortages are a common thread for local farmers.
But Randy Pettapiece says it's not just an issue locally but across Ontario.
"Finding and retaining agricultural workers in Ontario is difficult, even before the pandemic," said Pettapeice.
He was part of last week's Perth County Federation of Agriculture’s Federal-Provincial Forum.
And he pointed out that one of the ways to keep labour a focus is agriculture education.
"If the past two years have taught us anything, it is the importance of having a secure, domestic food production and Ontario is fortunate to have that," said Pettapiece. "And the importance of education and attracting young people to the agriculture sector and increasing processing capacity throughout Ontario."
He says increased capacity will bring more goods to market benefiting producers and consumers.
