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Ontario wine is part of our culture and it's a vibrant industry that has huge potential.
This year's record breaking harvest of nearly 80,000 tonnes of grapes is valued at almost
$100 million. That's a huge, huge success story.
30 years ago, we didn't have a wine industry in Ontario that had anything like the profile
or the success that we have today. The skill of our grape growers, their dedication, and
the support of our government has contributed to that growth and I am very, very proud and
pleased about that. That's why we put in place the renewal of the Wine and Grape Strategy,
with that $75 million investment. It's why we introduced our Local Food Act, because
the agrifood industry is a critical part of our economic success. That's how we are investing
in a business climate and investing in people so that we can see the economy grow. What
we are doing in Ontario is a jobs strategy. The work that we have been doing with groups
like the Grape Growers of Ontario is an example of how we can support industry in this province
to create jobs, to retain jobs, and to create great products that can be the pride of the
province. So, enjoy that icewine everyone, responsibly.
Thank you very much. [applause]