The Opposition is accusing the province’s Minister of Agriculture of not taking food security seriously.

Pleaman Forsey who represents the district of Exploits says delays forcing the closure of the Green Valley Beef abattoir in central Newfoundland shows a lack of action from Minister Derek Bragg.

Forsey says environmental protection is important, but so are reasonable timelines and expectations from the provincial government.

He calls the loss of the abattoir a major lost opportunity for food security and the local economy. He says delays and bureaucracy are being felt throughout the local agrifood industry with the financial pressures on farmers continuing to build.

“Times like this demand real action,” says Forsey.

Labrador Abattoir

Meanwhile, a proposed abattoir in Labrador has now entered the Environmental Assessment process. Dinsmore Farm on the Northwest River Road in Happy Valley-Goose Bay is proposing to operate a year-round service to local farmers.

The deadline for public comment is August 26th, with the minister’s decision by September 4.