Sherbrooke, Monday, June 15, 2026 – Marianne Dandurand, Member of Parliament for Compton–Stanstead, welcomes the launch of the Government of Canada’s new National Food Security Strategy, a historic $3.2 billion investment over 10 years aimed at strengthening food production, supporting local food processing, and lowering food costs for families.
“When grocery prices rise, families feel the impact directly. This strategy addresses a very real concern: how to make food more affordable while strengthening our ability to produce more of it here at home,” said Marianne Dandurand.
In a riding with deep roots in agriculture and agri-food like Compton–Stanstead, this strategy could deliver tangible benefits on many fronts.
The region is home to a strong agricultural sector as well as numerous food processors that play a central role in the local economy. Investments in infrastructure, processing, and innovation could help increase the value added to food produced in the Eastern Townships while strengthening the resilience of our food system.
For example, increased support for local processing could help more producers process and preserve their products, reducing food waste and keeping more value within our region.
Investments aimed at increasing fruit and vegetable production, particularly through greenhouses and controlled-environment agriculture, could also create new opportunities for local producers seeking to extend their growing season and meet the growing demand for locally produced food.
The strategy also includes investments to strengthen distribution networks and better connect producers, processors, independent grocers, and institutions such as schools and hospitals. These measures could improve access to local products, facilitate the movement of food within our communities, and strengthen competition in the food sector.
“Since my election, I have had the opportunity to meet with many producers, processors, and agri-food stakeholders across the Eastern Townships. I am pleased to see that many of the issues they have raised with me, particularly regarding processing, distribution, innovation, and competitiveness, are reflected in this national strategy,” added the Member of Parliament.
“Agriculture is part of the identity of the Eastern Townships and remains a major economic driver for our region. Supporting our producers and processors means supporting family businesses, strengthening our rural communities, and ensuring greater food security for the future. The more we produce, process, and distribute here, the stronger our self-sufficiency becomes.”
To learn more about the National Food Security Strategy:
https://agriculture.canada.ca/en/department/initiatives/national-food-security-strategy
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