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The Grassroots Greenhouse 2023
Agriculture, Federal, Grassroots News, NewsCanada’s Agriculture & Food Sectors Viewed as a Key Driver of National Security and Critical Infrastructure
TORONTO, ON – August 15, 2023 – The fifth annual national Agri-Food public opinion poll by Grassroots Public Affairs finds one third of Canadians (32%) continue to see hunger and food insecurity as a very serious issue in Canada (33% in 2022), with heaviest responsibility on government to manage the national problem. Most Canadians (72%) are opting for lower-cost or discounted food items (up from 38% in 2020).
In partnership with Food Banks Canada, Fertilizer Canada, and other sector stakeholders, Grassroots’ online survey measured attitudes, direction, and intensity of public opinion on a range of issues around Canada’s domestic Agri-Food sector.
While 46% of Canadians see Healthcare as the most important industry for Canada’s national security and critical infrastructure, 42% identified Agriculture and Agri-Food as the lead driver. Interesting findings include:
“So much has changed over the past 3 years, including supply chain viability, and increasing food prices, but Canadians still believe strongly in the potential of domestic food production. There will always be challenges, but few other industries are consistently viewed as positively. Canada’s Agriculture and Agri-Food sector is resilient, and with the full support of government it will continue to help Canada regain economic stability,” says Peter Seemann, Principal & Sr. Consultant at Grassroots Public Affairs.
Multiple years of thorough research has reinforced Grassroots Public Affairs strong belief in the growth potential of Canada’s domestic food system. We will be releasing more detailed findings including demographic breakdowns on a variety of questions in the coming weeks.
Methodology and Sample Size
The Canada-wide survey was conducted via an online panel of 1,000 Canadians 18+. Fieldwork for the survey took place between May 3rd and May 18th, and the survey was offered in English and French.
View the ‘Greenhouse’ Findings’ below:
Grassroots-Greenhouse-2023-Report-V10-Final-VersionFor media inquiries, please contact:
Lindsay Yaciuk – Communications, Grassroots Public Affairs
lindsay@grassrootspa.ca 905-715-2788
#GrassrootsGlimpse: A snapshot of the new 2022 Ontario MPPs
Provincial, Grassroots NewsFollowing the 2022 Ontario provincial elections, 36 new Members of Provincial Parliament have been announced.
36 out of 124 Ontario Members of Provincial Parliament (MPPs) will be taking a seat in the Legislative Chamber for the first time this coming September after a massive win for the Ontario Progressive Conservative Party and leader Doug Ford who secured more than 80 seats in the province’s 2022 election. Out of the 36 new members: 28 are PC, 4 are Liberal, 3 are NDP, and 1 is Independent.
Each week we will be highlighting additional new Members of Provincial Parliament. To learn more about the new members, click the names below.
NEW PC MEMBERS
NEW LIBERAL MEMBERS
NEW INDEPENDENT MEMBER
NEW NDP MEMBERS
Lobby Day Lessons from Parliament Hill and Queen’s Park, Face-to-Face Matters
Advocacy, PersonalReem is an associate consultant at Grassroots Public Affairs and is based in Ottawa. Reem can be reached at reem@grassrootspa.ca
When it comes to lobbying government, I have learned it goes beyond scheduled meetings and formal conversations; it also includes maximizing each and every encounter, and embracing the unforeseen opportunities that can arise.
Recently, I had the opportunity of participating in two distinct lobby days — one federal and one provincial — both offering invaluable lessons in the power of face-to-face advocacy communications.
The federal lobby day at Parliament Hill focused on an important health issue and the meetings and stories I heard were deeply moving. These advocacy meetings were not uniform scripted discussions; they included powerful personal stories that resonated with who we were meeting with on a whole new level. Hearing directly from patient stakeholders enriched my understanding of their cause and strengthened the foundation for future advocacy endeavours.
A key takeaway was the importance of listening carefully by being fully present during conversations. Given the constant distractions we face daily, being present isn’t just about physically being there; it’s about full engagement, actively taking in every meeting detail. PT Barnum famously said, “Comfort is the enemy of progress,” and I agree. Stepping out of one’s comfort zone, even in familiar settings, is pivotal for professional and personal growth. Each client meeting, despite the number attendees, presents an opportunity to build relationships and evolve one’s communication skills.
The provincial lobby day at the smaller Queen’s Park legislature highlighted a contrast between federal and provincial environments, emphasizing the value of casual interactions. An informal morning reception created space for genuine conversations with MPPs, highlighting how brief encounters can help build important relationships with government officials which over time can lead to substantial commitments benefiting the client’s cause.
The value of being physically on-site cannot be overstated. While our clients were engaged in meetings where my presence wasn’t necessary, spending time in the Quorum Café at Queen’s Park proved invaluable. Seizing the chance to network with government officials unexpectedly led to a meaningful conversation with my own Member of Provincial Parliament. This impromptu interaction resulted in a commitment for a future meeting. Time and again I observe that face-to-face conversations cannot be imitated digitally.
Word of caution: engaging with officials should always be done respectfully and without intruding on their breaks. Yet, being where the action is can lead to some surprising encounters so next time you find yourself in line for a slice of carrot cake (author’s note: which is amazing at the Queen’s Park cafeteria!) and there stands your MPP, say hello. One never knows where a courteous exchange may lead.
In essence, I’ve learned that the art of effective lobbying goes far beyond routine meetings and formal conversations — it is about fully immersing yourself in the face-to-face experience and building those personal relationships. Each instance, each conversation, whether on Parliament Hill or at Queen’s Park offers a canvas for growth, fostering deeper connections, and future opportunities. Being fully present and engaged is paramount. A seemingly small moment may lead to progress and action.
– Reem Wahab, Associate Consultant
Ontario’s 2024 Budget Consultation Process: Shaping the Province’s Economic Future
OntarioAs Ontario gears up for the 2024 Budget, the Province is actively seeking input from a diverse range of voices: workers, families, business owners, and communities. This call for engagement underscores the government’s commitment to crafting a budget that resonates with the needs and aspirations of its citizens.
The Essence of Budget Consultations
Budget consultations are a crucial democratic process where the government invites stakeholders to share their perspectives on fiscal planning. This process allows for the collection of ideas and suggestions on how the government can better support its citizens today while forging a strong future. The deadline for submissions for the 2024 Budget is set for January 31, 2024.
Your Role in Shaping Ontario’s Budget
Ontario Fall Economic Statement 2023: A Preliminary Step
The 2023 Ontario Fall Economic Statement (ON FES 2023), delivered by Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy on November 2, 2023, plays a foundational role in this process. Serving as a snapshot of the province’s financial health, the FES outlines strategic fiscal measures, economic policies, and future projections. Key areas highlighted include:
Invest Ontario: A Catalyst for Economic Development
Invest Ontario is pivotal in offering grants and funding opportunities, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth. Key programs include:
Your Voice in Ontario’s Economic Blueprint
The 2023 FES is the starting point for a comprehensive budgetary process. It highlights the government’s current priorities but importantly opens the floor for public participation. By engaging in budget consultations and submitting proposals, stakeholders play a critical role in shaping a budget that reflects the diverse needs of Ontarians. This participatory approach is key to ensuring informed and inclusive fiscal policymaking in Ontario.
Let Grassroots Public Affairs help you craft your submission to make your voice heard.
Stay Hopeful
PersonalIn this era of immediate and relentless digital communication, stories and images of overlapping crises have become the norm. If you don’t go out of your way to find good news, there isn’t much of it.
Personally, I find it all rather overwhelming.
I miss the old days when the family phone hung quietly on the kitchen wall, a harbinger of occasional news and Sunday evening calls from Grama (when long distance rates were lowest, of course).
Is it just me, or was life not more wholesome before “smart” technology ruled society?
After consecutive years of doom-scrolling, I found myself in a dreadful spot – starting to lose hope for a peaceful, better future.
So, when a Queen’s Park staffer recently signed off an email with “Stay hopeful,” it struck me as very sage advice.
Two small words. Big message. Attitude is a choice.
The political arena is a big and busy place, often fraught with complex and simultaneous challenges.
During my 6 years with Grassroots Public Affairs, we’ve covered multiple provincial and federal elections, the unprecedented pandemic emergency, a litany of political scandals, divisive social upheavals, foreign wars, and many other strange and disconcerting events.
My journey into the fascinating world of government advocacy has been quite the ride.
I tip my hat to the many brave and well-meaning souls who serve Canadians through provincial and federal politics, including the lobbyists who provide a critical juncture between the private and public sectors. Nothing is ever perfect, but Ontario is still a wonderful place to call home, compared to many other places on earth.
I feel fortunate and grateful to work with the skilled and supportive communicators at Grassroots Public Affairs.
Life is full of choices. The decision to stay hopeful isn’t always easy, but it can be done.
“For every problem, there is a solution.” – Peter Seemann
With uncertainty and chaos all around, let us value the time we have and focus on the positive.
Let us stay hopeful.
Lindsay Yaciuk
Communications
Lindsay has 23 years corporate communications and leadership experience in the insurance sector, with specialties in Mergers & Acquisitions, Human Resources, and Strategic Planning. An accomplished writer and speaker, Lindsay is dedicated to accurate yet impassioned depictions of campaign goals. Her diplomatic and collaborative approach yields consistent communication and advocacy results. Lindsay holds an Honours BA in English Literature from Nipissing University.
Reflecting on Lessons Learned During a Recent Training Session
Personal, AdvocacyRay Pons, Senior Communications Specialist at Grassroots Public Affairs reflects on his recent training session and shares important lessons learned during this experience.
Recently, I had the opportunity to deliver some advice, some training & coaching, to a group of young farmers. Young in years, yet very mature in substance, these young men and women left me most impressed.
Grassroots has developed solid relationships across the country with many members of the agriculture community and we’ve held sessions to assist in understanding and executing on our 3C’s approach to effective lobbying [Clarity – Consistency – Collaboration].
My primary focus was to help these highly capable farmers to embrace the principles of managing their desires to “pitch too quickly” and instead focus on “building relationships” to gain greater support from politicians and government staffers. In the whirlwind world of provincial and federal politics slowing down can seem counter-productive and while it is easy to think about it is not at all easy to do.
But in this group, on this day, they did it!
Early in the training we introduced a role-playing scenario. They were asked to prepare what they would say when in a meeting with government representatives. It became evident that the farmers tended to cut-to-the-chase almost immediately and talk about their problems on the farm and their vital need to get greater financial, legislative, and resource assistance for the agriculture sector. The issues they spoke of were not imaginary, they were real, very real, and their passion clear to see.
However, balancing that passion was an open-mindedness to embrace that there might be a better way than the instinctive tell-and-sell approach.
I suggested that effective lobbying comes down to engaging with the other person first and foremost, establishing what you hope will be a start of a personal and professional relationship, so that your very real issues connect more adhesively to their very real issues.
After hearing the first efforts from the three groups we put them back to work, not to craft what they will say but what they will ask.
In a matter of minutes, almost immediately, it was most noticeable when a young lady said: “Mr. Minister, what got you into running for office?”
A partner in her group then asked: “How important is agriculture in your mind, where might it rank on a scale of 1 to 10?”
They learned the lesson of creating powerhouse questions prior to pitching. I learned the lesson of finesse when giving instructions. Win-Win.
Harness the power of sincere and truthful relationship building. Put yourself in their moccasins for a moment and empathize before you emphasize. Slow down when in their whirlwind. You’ll be glad you did. And so will they.
And if Grassroots Public Affairs might be of help to enable you to better craft your message, please get in touch: info@grassrootspa.ca
Ray Pons
Sr. Communications Specialist
Ray is an expert on leadership development, impactful communication and strategic coaching. In addition to his years as a serial entrepreneur, Ray’s experience includes life insurance, reinsurance, being a faculty member trainer at Rockhurst University Continuing Education Center, Keynote Speaker and Executive Coach to businesses small and large. He has a straightforward, no-nonsense style heavily influenced by Dr. Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People & The 8th Habit. Ray brings an experienced, yet innovative approach to performance improvement, team-building and change management.
Communications Management for Advocacy Campaigns
AdvocacyEffective communication is pivotal to the success of any project, whether it’s related to government relations campaigns or other sectors. Drawing on years of corporate experience, it’s evident that communications management serves as the linchpin that informs every aspect of a project. Properly executed, it ensures that both the team and stakeholders are kept abreast of project progress, challenges, and changes. Consequently, effective communications management fosters robust collaboration and facilitates informed decision-making.
Developing Your Project Communications Management Plan
The cornerstone of a successful advocacy campaign is a well-defined communications strategy that spans the entire project. Engaging stakeholders in the planning process is crucial for understanding their communication expectations and preferences. To develop a comprehensive plan, consider the following key questions:
Stakeholder Mapping is done to identify and categorize the individuals, groups, or organizations that have an interest in a particular project or initiative. Grassroots Public Affairs can help you determine the level of engagement, communication, or consideration each stakeholder requires, often placing them on a grid or matrix based on their influence and interest:
Mapping stakeholder priorities is crucial for several reasons:
Importance of a Digital Audit
In the realm of government relations and advocacy, the role of digital channels has become increasingly important. Communication strategies have evolved to include digital platforms, brand identity, regular marketing initiatives, and more as key elements of any campaign. In today’s digital age, political staff and bureaucrats conduct a lot of research online. Therefore, a strong online presence coupled with a well-developed brand identity that conveys your message is critical for the success of your campaign.
The Grassroots Digital Audit takes a comprehensive approach to enhancing your advocacy efforts. We analyze your digital channel text and content using qualitative and subjective metrics, as well as key performance indicators (KPIs) through quantitative and objective metrics. This dual analysis provides a clear picture of what you need to do in terms of brand and digital strategy to improve your advocacy efforts.
Transitioning from Idea to Action
Once the plan is confirmed, the real work of communication begins with a focus on—clarity, consistency, and collaboration:
Additionally, it’s crucial not to overlook the steps of monitoring and adjusting your communication strategy based on feedback. This ongoing process ensures that you meet the information needs of your team and stakeholders.
Effective communications management is indispensable for the success of any project. A meticulously crafted plan including Stakeholder Mapping, coupled with real-time adjustments and a strong digital strategy, can significantly elevate your advocacy campaigns and stakeholder engagement.
Artem Chaplynsky
Consultant
Artem contributes a multifaceted background in project management, strategic communications, and stakeholder engagement to our team. During his 4-year tenure as a Policy and Special Advisor at the Office of the Premier of Ontario, Artem developed expertise in policy development and political communications. With experience in both the public and private sectors, he understands the importance of building relationships between businesses, governments, and communities. At Grassroots, Artem helps clients navigate the complexities of government and public relations with confidence, aligning their interests with public needs. As a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) with an Honors Specialization in International Relations degree from Western University, Artem applies proven research and project management skills to his advocacy work. He is committed to fostering open dialogue between policymakers and clients, ensuring that innovative technologies and ideas are recognized and understood.
Meet Canada’s Next Prime Minister – Pierre Poilievre
Federal(Photo by Sudbury.com)
This past July’s cabinet shuffle by the Trudeau Liberals has increased speculation about Canada’s 45th general election happening sooner rather than later. I was uncertain a few months ago but am increasingly believing that there’s a chance for a federal election next spring. Whenever the next vote may happen, I am equally optimistic that the Conservatives will win, making Pierre Poilievre the next Prime Minister of Canada.
I had the good fortune of supporting Pierre in his leadership campaign last year. I say good fortune because it’s the first successful leadership campaign I have been involved in since Stephen Harper won in 2004. After Harper’s win, I was involved in many other leadership campaigns, both provincially and federally, but none of those candidates were successful, and none of them garnered the type of attention and interest that Mr. Poilievre did. Leadership campaigns can benefit from the changing mood and interests of the electorate and sometimes the right candidate comes along at the right time. Pierre Poilievre’s narrative, which focuses on reducing the size of government and making Canada the freest country in the world, garnered a lot of interest following two years of pandemic lockdowns. He has proven himself as an astute politician with the ability to capitalize on growing unrest across the nation. His authentic, straightforward communication style emphasizes a common-sense approach which is increasingly resonating with many Canadian voters.
Of course, many things can still happen to influence the next election’s outcome, but here is why I believe it’s time to prepare for a Poilievre-led government:
The Liberal brand is showing major signs of fatigue…
There are rumors that Justin Trudeau aspires to achieve a fourth consecutive election victory, something no Prime Minister has done since Wilfred Laurier in 1908. This is no easy feat, especially in the digitized 21st century. No matter how well you govern or lead, many people will eventually tire of seeing your face. Politics is no place for small egos, and those egos often get in the way of reality. Just like Stephen Harper before him, a certain number of Canadians will no longer support Mr. Trudeau simply because in their minds he has been there for too long. The recent cabinet shuffle promoted some new faces, but the core of the Liberal government remains the same, with Trudeau, Freeland, Joly, and others as the face of the federal government for years now.
Conservative priorities, particularly economic issues, are increasingly on the minds of Canadians…
Everything seems to run in cycles and the Canadian economy is no exception. After years of low interest rates, borrowing rates have soared to address the post-pandemic inflation being experienced by virtually all economic sectors. While the cost of housing is a pressing concern for many families, the rising prices of other essential goods and services creates a challenging environment for Trudeau. The Liberals may be perceived as strong on issues like healthcare and the environment, but Conservatives, rightly or wrongly, are often viewed as better fiscal managers. More Canadians vote blue when economic times are tough. Poilievre holds a significant advantage here, having consistently emphasized the need for responsible fiscal management in our country, long before it became a focal point for Canadian families. If Poilievre is successful in winning the next election, following through with his promises won’t be easy but that’s a challenge he will certainly welcome if given the chance to govern the nation. From an economic perspective, it seems evident that Justin’s famous “Sunny Ways” quote may have run its course.
Pierre is a tireless campaigner and knows policy inside and out…
Some have criticized Poilievre for his lifelong political career, but in today’s world this is hardly unique. I can personally attest to Pierre’s remarkable grasp on a wide range of issues and policies, having attended many rallies and speaking events. Since his first election win almost 20 years ago, Poilievre has been a diligent student of policy and government, serving as the Minister of Democratic Reform in the Harper government and Finance Critic while in opposition. He is very quick on his feet, fluent in both official languages, rarely relies on notes when speaking, and will present a formidable opponent in the election debates. While the Liberal camp will undoubtedly have a well-crafted game plan to face off against Poilievre, he will unquestionably be the most challenging adversary Justin Trudeau has ever encountered. Prime Minister Harper was an experienced leader in 2015, but public speaking and debate weren’t his strong suits. Andrew Scheer and Erin O’Toole had their strengths, but for various reasons, they couldn’t overcome Trudeau’s brand. Poilievre, being younger and more agile in his responses, could gain significant traction. Although some might find his tenacity off-putting, I predict many more will be drawn to his critiques of Trudeau as life gets harder for millions of middle-class Canadians from coast-to-coast.
A final note on public opinion polling – avoid reading too much into isolated polls. However, a series of polls showing consistent trends can indicate a real shift in public sentiment. An Abacus Data poll released in late July showed that, under Poilievre’s leadership, the Conservatives have opened a 10% lead in national polling. Since that poll was released, several others show a similar if not growing lead for Poilievre. I’m not ready to bet on a majority CPC win just yet, but it’s clear that the wind is in their sails, while the PM and his Liberal caucus struggle to keep their ship afloat.
Peter Seemann
Principal & Sr. Consultant
Peter has 20 years’ experience as a business owner and entrepreneur. He has been deeply involved in federal and provincial politics since 1993 and has earned an impressive reputation as a campaign manager and highly effective, “get things done” leader. Peter has his MBA in Executive Management from Royal Roads University, BC, graduating in 2008 with a specialization in Leadership.
The focus of Grassroots is to bring a solid, real-world, business approach to government advocacy based on “Clarity – Consistency – Collaboration” designed to help businesses and associations get tangible support for their vision, mission and message.