News

Agriculture Minister to take Pulse Pledge, make statement citing health benefits of edible beans, peas, lentils

Carman, MB  – June 14, 2016 – Manitoba Pulse & Soybean Growers is pleased to announce that the Honourable Ralph Eichler, Minister of Agriculture, will be making a ministerial statement to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba on Thursday, June 16, recognizing 2016 as the International Year of Pulses.

In his statement, Minister Eichler will encourage all members of the house to join him in taking the Pulse Pledge by incorporating pulses into their diet at least once a week through the remainder of 2016. The statement being read in Manitoba’s Legislative Chamber recognizing the International Year of Pulses will be transcribed and remain in Hansard – the archival history of the Manitoba Legislature.

“As 2016 is the International Year of Pulses, Manitoba Agriculture is proud to recognize the success pulse producers are having in our province,” said Minister Eichler. “With lower input costs and relatively strong prices, pulses have become a popular choice for Manitoba producers. The nutritional benefits of pulses make them a healthy choice for consumers. Pulses are also a sustainable and environmentally responsible growing option.”

Manitoba Pulse & Soybean Growers Executive Director Francois Labelle along with a representation of MPSG’s Board of Directors will be in attendance witnessing Minister Eichler’s statement.

“It has been a remarkable year for our organization, the pulse industry, and our membership – pulse and soybean farmers in Manitoba,” said Labelle. “We look forward to Minister Eichler’s statement and sharing our positive story with the entire Manitoba Legislative Assembly. It’s an honour.”

Media is welcome to attend afternoon house session at 1:30 p.m., when Minister Eichler’s statement will be read during routine proceedings at the beginning of session. Media that plans to attend should contact Manitoba Government press secretary Kalen Qually at kalen.qually@leg.gov.mb.ca for the proper accreditation.

About MPSG and the Pulse Pledge

To commit to adding more edible beans, peas, and lentils to your diet, take the Pulse Pledge by visiting pulsecanada.com and clicking on “Take the Pulse Pledge.”

The Manitoba Pulse & Soybean Growers (MPSG) is a non-profit, member-based corporation representing more than 3,800 farmers in Manitoba who grow pulses, including edible beans, peas, lentils, chickpeas, faba beans, and soybeans. MPSG provides Manitoba pulse grower members with production knowledge and market development support, through focused research, advocacy, and linkages with industry partners. MPGA is funded by a 0.5% check-off levy and is governed by a board of directors, including elected active producers and appointed industry representatives.

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For more information, please contact:

Toban Dyck
Director of Communications
204-227-8875
toban@manitobapulse.ca

Francois Labelle, PAg
Executive Director
204-745-6488 (ext 2)
francois@manitobapulse.ca