Lacombe mayor taking optimistic approach during fight to save research centre

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Most recently, Lacombe Mayor Thalia Hibbs, Lacombe County Reeve John Ireland, as well as Western Crop Innovations research scientist Lori Oatway, were in Ottawa to speak to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food.

Mayor Hibbs tells rdnewsNOW that despite Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada seemingly doubling down in recent media statements, there is some positivity among the movement she’s leading.

She gives credit for the ability to look at it somewhat glass half full, in part, to all the agricultural bodies nationwide who’ve stepped forward to voice support.

“This isn’t just a local issue — this is a national research asset,” said Hibbs. “For more than a century, the LRDC has delivered the kind of independent, high-value agricultural research that Canada relies on. Losing it would undermine food security, reduce competitiveness, and take away opportunities for students, researchers, and producers across the country.”

Next steps include a report that will be submitted by the task force to the standing committee by March 19. As well, the standing committee itself will then take up to 45 days to compile a report on its findings, which will then go to Parliament.

In the meantime, Hibbs, Ireland and others are continuing their outreach.

Hibbs also shared they are exploring alternative options to somehow keep the facility doing what it has for 119 years, regardless of Ottawa’s decision.

“This research belongs to all Canadians,” added Reeve Ireland. “We will continue pushing for a solution that protects the LRDC’s legacy — and its future.”

The AAFC has cited cost savings as the primary rationale behind its decision.

It is also planning to shutter its research and development centres in Guelph, ON, and Quebec City, QC, plus four satellite research farms in Nappan, NS, Scott, SK, Indian Head, SK, and Portage la Prairie, MB.

The federal agency has said the closures could take up to a year.

The public can stay up-to-date on developments of the Lacombe task force’s advocacy efforts on these websites: https://www.lacombecounty.com/LRDC and www.lacombe.ca/LRDC.

by Josh Hall | @Vancan19

Lacombe mayor taking optimistic approach during fight to save research centre

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