News Releases

News Release - Manitoba

June 11, 2018

Province Announces Appointments to Manitoba Agriculture Research and Innovation Committee



The Manitoba government has appointed nine members to the newly formed Manitoba Agriculture Research and Innovation Committee (MARIC), which will provide analysis and recommendations on strategic investments in agricultural research, Agriculture Minister Ralph Eichler announced today.

“The new appointees to the committee all reflect the diversity of the research community and the agricultural sector as a whole,” said Eichler.  “Their expertise, experience and commitment to agricultural research will ensure our government receives the best advice on making investments and how to sustainably grow our industry for the future.”

The MARIC will be responsible for assessing and making funding recommendations related to research proposals submitted under the five-year, federal-provincial-territorial Canadian Agricultural Partnership.  Current priority areas include grain innovation, livestock production, agri-resource management, processing and value-added, and market development.  Committee members will also be responsible for developing and maintaining a provincial strategic plan for agricultural research and supporting research extension and communication with provincial, national and international stakeholders.

The following individuals have been appointed to MARIC on a two-year term:

  • Joanne Buth (Winnipeg), chairperson;
  • Betty Green (Fisher Branch), vice-chairperson;
  • Francois Labelle (Carman);
  • Dr. Allan Preston (Hamiota);
  • Trust Beta (Winnipeg);
  • Kim Ominski (Winnipeg);
  • Gary Plohman (Beausejour);
  • William (Bill) Ashton (Brandon); and
  • Bruce Hardy (Winnipeg).

The minister noted the creation of this committee meets the government’s broader commitment to streamline and reduce the number of appointments, boards and committees.  MARIC replaces advisory committees related to the previous federal-provincial-territorial framework, Growing Forward 2, as well as those connected to the province’s Grain Innovation Hub, Manitoba Livestock Manure Management Initiative Inc., and the Manitoba Consumer Monitor Food Panel.  This consolidation is expected to create savings of approximately $500,000 per year, while also reducing administrative burdens for researchers.

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BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHED




Backgrounder
Background Information - https://www.gov.mb.ca/asset_library/en/newslinks/2018/06/BG-MARIC-AG.doc