The commodity organization has divided into two separate divisions – Ontario Pork Universal Services and Ontario Pork Marketing Division. As per the directive from the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Ontario Pork had until Saturday, 4 December 2010 to comply with the marketing and governance changes as outlined in her May 13th decision. Hog producers are now free to choose to sell their hogs directly to buyers or through an intermediary such as the Ontario Pork Marketing Division.

“We had a detailed schedule for completion and have been working diligently to make it happen“, says Wilma Jeffray, Chair of Ontario Pork. “Since June, our producers have been sent regular communications informing them of what was taking place and what they should be considering to get their businesses ready for this day. Due to the work we have been doing internally over the last several months, we are confident producers will make informed decisions as they begin the transition."

Ontario Pork has been working closely with the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission and the Hog Industry Advisory Committee to ensure the appropriate regulations are in place for the new environment.