My statement today celebrates the most renewable and sustainable industry in the world: agriculture and food. Throughout the last number of weeks, I have enjoyed listening to my colleagues’ statements in this House recognizing the many summer and fall fairs that have taken place throughout our province. I am excited to announce the culmination of Ontario’s fair season begins this Friday night, here in Toronto at Exhibition Place, where the country truly does come to the city.

The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Since 1922, the Royal has crowned a century of champions in livestock, poultry, equine and food. Today, the Royal has grown to be the largest indoor agricultural and equestrian event in the world. A win at the Royal is special, whether you are pickling, making butter tarts, raising beef cattle, marketing dairy genetics internationally, or showing a six-horse hitch, you will experience the strength and vibrancy of rural Ontario.

Every year, over 300,000 people come to the fair to celebrate the very best food, livestock and horsemanship Canada has to offer. The Royal is happy to welcome you and your families back in person for the 2022 fair starting this weekend. Come to Exhibition Place and discover the sights, the sounds and the smells of the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair. If you want to better understand how your food comes to your plate every day, please come to the Royal.

Finally, if you had a meal today, thank a farmer.