The ag industry is congratulating Alberta's new Agriculture and Forestry Minister, Devin Dreeshen.

Dreeshen, who is an incumbant MLA for Innisfail-Sylvan Lake, has an extensive background in the industry including farming, working under Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz and starting his own consulting business to advise agriculture stakeholders on trade issues.

Team Alberta, which is made up of the four provincial crop commissions, say they look forward to working with Dreeshen to advance Alberta's $6 billion crop sector.

Key priorities for the Team include continued access to international markets, research and innovation, reducing regulatory hurdles and that all sources of energy used on farm be exempt from the carbon tax.

Previous NDP Agriculture and Forestry Minister, Oneil Carlier, joined others on social media welcoming Minister Dreeshen to the job.

In a twitter post, Carlier wished Dreeshen the best of luck on what he calls "the best portfolio in government".

Carlier won't be returning to the legislature following the Provincial election, coming in second to the United Conservative Party Candidate, Shane Getson, in the Lac Ste. Anne-Parkland riding.

Screenshot from Carlier Twitter.

The Western Wheat Growers is particularly happy with Dreeshen's new file, as he has a history serving with the organization.

Before starting his political career, Dreeshen was a Director for the Wheat Growers.

"It is appropriate that as we anticipate improvements to agriculture policy in Alberta, that we have an active farmer in the role of Minister,” said the Wheat Growers Alberta Vice President, Stephen Vandervalk who farms near Fort Macleod.

The group has asked Dreeshen to call upon his former colleagues as needed in the days ahead.

 

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