Members of Parliament attend “Pork BBQ” in Ottawa – Show Support for Canadian Pork Producers

May 07, 2009

Ottawa – Ted Menzies, Member of Parliament for Macleod and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance, attended a “Pork BBQ” yesterday on Parliament Hill which was organized by the Canadian Pork Council and sponsored by the Minister of Agriculture, Gerry Ritz. 

The event was a big success, and hundreds of people attended, including Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz, Members of Parliament, Senators and government staff.

“This event was a great opportunity to show all Canadians that Canadian pork is safe,” said Menzies. “This Government will continue to stand up for Canadian pork producers and ensure that they are treated fairly by China and all members of the World Trade Organization.”

The World Health Organization (WHO), World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) and FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) all agree that pork is safe. This week, the WHO’s daily update, states: “There is no risk of infection from this virus from consumption of well-cooked pork and pork products.”

These organizations are also re-emphasizing the importance of properly cooking pork to ensure food safety. Once again Canadian pork is safe, and we should all continue to support our Canadian pork producers.

Attached is a photo of Jurgen Preugschas, Alberta Board Member, Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz and Ted Menzies.