The single desk, farm programs, and the future of ag: Wayne Easter reflects on his decades in politics

by

There’s something to be said for authentic and lively debate of the key issues of the day. When you’ve served in federal politics for over two decades, one can only hope to have as many examples of such as Wayne Easter, retiring Member of Parliament for Malpeque, P.E.I.

Easter says he has lived by two rules while in politics: never take yourself too seriously, and never forget where you came from. The two principles have served him well through hundreds of debates in the House of Commons, and on the road too.

In this interview looking back at his time as an MP and even before as president of the National Farmers Union, it’s not hard to pick up on the passion and respect that Easter has for the agriculture industry — and Canada’s industriousness in general. He’s particularly committed, even still, to primary producers being recognized as the key cog in the value chain, but one with less control over risk factors than others.

He may be retiring from politics, but Easter wants to ensure that going forward, “farmers doing the production are getting the benefits for their labours and recognized as such,” with risk management programs and support that reflects their valuable role.

From fighting for the single desk, to tours of the Canadian Prairies, listen/watch Easter’s interview with RealAg Radio host, Shaun Haney.

Tags:

Comments

Please Log in

Log in

or Register

Register

to read or comment!