Federal Conservative leader Andrew Scheer is among those paying tribute to outgoing Battlefords-Lloydminster MP Gerry Ritz who has resigned his seat in the House of Commons this week.
Scheer issued a statement in which he publicly thanked Ritz for his years of public service.
“On behalf of the Conservative caucus, I want to thank Gerry for his years of service to the families of Saskatchewan, and to the people of Canada as a minister and shadow minister.
“Gerry’s focus has always been on supporting the workers and communities of the Canadian prairies – the people who grow our food and share Canada’s top-notch agricultural products with the world. Gerry’s expertise on global markets and the benefit of free trade to Canadian farmers is second to none.
“Under his leadership, Canadians have witnessed greater marketing freedom for grain farmers, the significant expansion of international markets for Canadian farmers and ranchers, and unprecedented support for agricultural innovation.
“As a proud fellow MP from Saskatchewan, I know Gerry has made a huge difference for the constituents he serves. We wish him and Judy nothing but the best for the future.”
Also paying tribute to Ritz was his colleague David Anderson, MP for Cypress Hills Grasslands.
“No one in Canada has cast a longer shadow over Canadian agriculture for the past 10 years than Gerry Ritz. The successes he had as Agriculture minister have changed Canadian agriculture for the better and will be long lasting. I have been privileged to work alongside him on agriculture and trade issues that directly affect Canadian farmers and ranchers. His strength, negotiating skills, and passion will be missed in the House,” Anderson said.
“His persistence in freeing farmers from the Canadian Wheat Board and the resulting positive change to the agricultural landscape throughout Western Canada is a testament to his commitment to our province,” Anderson said.
The news release from Anderson also acknowledged Ritz’s involvement in over 30 trade missions, as well as in fighting against American Country of Origin Labeling.
“Gerry and I were seatmates in the House of Commons chamber for the last year. I will miss his quick wit and snappy responses during Question Period. I would like to thank him for his service, dedication and leadership. I wish him and Judy the best in the future,”
