Canadian Grain Commission Celebrates its Centennial

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - April 4, 2012) - Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz will congratulate the Canadian Grain Commission (CGC) on its centennial at a celebration this evening in Ottawa. Since 1912, the CGC has been helping establish and sustain Canada's reputation as a consistent supplier of high-quality grain, both domestically and abroad.

"Grain farming is at the core of Canada's heritage and economy," said Minister Ritz. "The Canadian Grain Commission's work over the past 100 years has contributed directly to Canada's world-class reputation for high-quality grain."

Today, the CGC is a highly specialized federal agency that works in close collaboration with producers, processors, grain companies, and end users. Through its activities, the Commission supports a competitive, efficient grain sector and upholds Canada's international reputation for consistent and reliable grain quality.

"On behalf of the Government of Canada and Canadian grain farmers, congratulations to the dedicated employees of the Canadian Grain Commission on this milestone occasion," continued Minister Ritz. "The Canadian Grain Commission can be proud of a long history and can continue to look forward to playing a strong role in the future."

Employing approximately 650 people, the CGC is the regulator of Canada's grain handling industry and the official certifier of Canadian grain. The CGC is responsible for establishing and maintaining Canada's grain grading system, and is also one of Canada's scientific research organizations on grain quality.