News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The provincial government unveiled more details of its "Buy Local" initiative today, introducing a specially decorated van that will tour New Brunswick this summer.

"I am excited about the upcoming tour, which will give New Brunswickers a chance to meet their local farmers and fishermen as well obtain information about the wide variety of locally produced food and the impressive amount of value-added products made in our province," said Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries Minister Michael Olscamp. "I invite everyone to stop by the Buy Local van whenever you see it and get to know where your food comes from and the people who produce or catch it."

Summer student Victoria Blakely will crisscross the province in the Buy Local van. Olscamp will accompany her to fairs, festivals and markets when possible.

The department is teaming up with organizations and associations that represent the province's agriculture, aquaculture and fisheries industries to participate in the tour.

"We are pleased to participate in the launch of the Buy Local initiative," said Jean-Eudes Chiasson, president of the National Farmers Union in New Brunswick. "The National Farmers Union heartily supports every opportunity to promote the excellent products and consummate skills of our farmers."

Jennifer MacDonald, president of the Agricultural Alliance of New Brunswick, also welcomed this endeavour.

"The Agricultural Alliance of New Brunswick fully supports the New Brunswick government's Buy Local initiative,” she said. “It is a unique opportunity for the public to meet local farmers who are dedicated to growing high quality safe food and feeding the communities in our province, and beyond. We are pleased that the government recognizes the importance of educating New Brunswickers as well as visitors about the food industry in our province. We hope that everyone will take advantage of meeting the great farmers and fishermen and learn how their food is produced."

The first stop of the tour will take place from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 15, at the W.W. Boyce Farmers Market in downtown Fredericton. Tim Livingstone of Strawberry Hill Farm will be on hand to explain their fresh produce box program.

On Sunday, June 23, Olscamp will hold a "Meet Your Fisherman" day in Alma. Visitors will be able to tour a lobster boat and lobster pound as well as meet local fishermen. There will be special deals on live and cooked lobster.

More details about the tour are online.