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Ag in brief: John Deere strike continues, Manitoba’s new premier has ag experience

John Deere workers vote down tentative deal

Despite the elected national bargaining team at John Deere and its striking workers (represented by the United Auto Workers Union) reaching a tentative deal, as of Nov. 3, the strike continues. The deal was voted down by striking members. The strike is comprised of some 10,000 workers. According to the UAW, the vote reached a result of 45 per cent yes to 55 per cent no.

Heather Stefanson sworn is as Manitoba premier

Heather Stefanson made Manitoba history when she was sworn in as the province’s first-ever female premier on Nov. 2. Stefanson was voted in as leader of the province’s Progressive Conservative party following the retirement of Brian Pallister. Stefanson has held various cabinet positions including deputy premier and minister of health, but she also has connections to the ag world. In her early political career, she worked as an assistant to former federal Agriculture Minister Charlie Mayer.

“This was something that was once unthinkable. I reflect on the many people who have paved the way to make this possible, and I promise that our governments will embrace their values of equality, inclusivity and understanding,” she said at her swearing-in ceremony.

Mark Kaminsky becomes chair of National Chicken Council

Koch Foods COO Mark Kaminsky has been installed as the 2021-22 chairman of the National Chicken Council (NCC). This is his second, non-consecutive term as chair. Other officers on the board include Mountainaire Farms CEO Kevin Garland (vice-chair) and new officer Randy Day (Perdue Farms CEO). In addition to the three new officers, Mike Brown was elected to an eleventh term as president of NCC.