For a strong and competitive maple industry - Minister Pierre Paradis unveils the Gagné report on the Québec maple industry

QUEBEC CITY, Feb. 11, 2016 /CNW Telbec/ - The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Pierre Paradis, unveiled the Gagné report on the issues facing Québec's maple sector and the improvements to be made regarding its operation.

It will be recalled that, on May 15, 2015, due to concerns about the future of Québec's maple industry, whose role as a world leader has continued to weaken from year to year, the Minister mandated Florent Gagné to conduct an exhaustive study of the situation and make recommendations.

From the outset, the Minister made the following statement: "I wish to thank Mr. Gagné for his professionalism and his thorough work. Today, I am making this document available so that it can lead to positive changes in Québec's maple sector."

The Gagné report includes 21 recommendations to ensure growth, harmony and progress within the industry. The recommendations are intended for the Ministère de l'Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l'Alimentation, the Régie des marchés agricoles et alimentaires du Québec, La Financière agricole du Québec and the Fédération des producteurs acéricoles du Québec, among others.

"The current system has led to great accomplishments. However, to continue developing, it must adapt to meet the changes dictated by a rapidly evolving world," stated Mr. Gagné.

"It is important to point out that Québec is still by far the world leader in maple syrup production. However, it would be wrong to believe that this cannot change and that we can ignore what is happening elsewhere with impunity. In the last ten years, we have lost 10% of the global market share. If nothing changes, another 10% will be lost by 2025. The suggestions made by Mr. Gagné are very interesting and will help reverse that trend. My intention is for Québec to proudly retain its position as the world leader in blond gold, not only in terms of volume, but also—and above all—in terms of quality," concluded Pierre Paradis.

Those who wish to consult the report may do so at http://www.mapaq.gouv.qc.ca/SiteCollectionDocuments/Publications/RapportErable_ANGLAIS.pdf 

SOURCE Cabinet du ministre de l'Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l'Alimentation

Office of the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Telephone: [phone]