Tory promotes plan to buy local

Progressive Conservative Party Leader John Tory said a PC government would show real leadership by expanding and promoting the purchase of Ontariogrown products throughout the province.

"A PC government would lead by example and push government run facilities like schools, hospitals and government cafeterias to buy and serve Ontario-grown products. With a level playing field and a fair chance, Ontario farmers and their products can compete against the best in the world," said Tory. "It's about time the Ontario government showed some real leadership by creating fair opportunities and showing its support for the people who are the anchor of our rural economy. If it's paid for with Ontario taxpayers money we should be buying Ontario as often as we possibly can."

The PC Party plan will invest in strong communities, provide fairness for farmers and their families and build for Ontario's future. A John Tory PC government will:

- Significantly increase the purchase of Ontariogrown products by public institutions such as hospitals and schools.

- Sharpen and expand the definition of "grown in Ontario" through three specific initiatives which will:

* Update and expand the 'Buy Local' Foodland Ontario campaign to include meat.

* Encourage and assist in the establishment and promotion of Ontario sections in food stores.

* Better promote the benefits of Ontario food to consumers.

"Ontario farmers produce some of the best food in the world - our farming families have built a reputation for production excellence around the world. Our 'Buy Ontario' campaign will show real leadership by opening up a new market to farmers and taking immediate steps to provide them with the support they have not received from Dalton McGuinty or his government.

"We will lead by example and open up new markets for Ontario farmers proving that government believes in the products and services our farmers have to offer.

"Ontario has a proud history of farmers who have been able to produce and succeed. Under Dalton McGuinty's weak leadership this has not been the case - our farmers are sinking further and further into financial ruin," said Tory. "A PC government will live up to its responsibility to invest and support our farmers."