MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR - Scott Helps

The power of positivity and a willingness to embrace change are equally important tools in adapting to an ever-changing world and have been crucial as we worked to overcome the external challenges that our industry faced in 2025. I believe our commitment to governance training has provided us with a toolbox that—as we build our knowledge and skills—is filled with the necessary tools to better plan and problem-solve.

 

This year, the Board participated in two sessions: Decision Making and Navigating and Balancing Risk Management. Both workshops taught us how to make better decisions under pressure, follow established processes, and identify risks. We also held a Crisis Leadership session for Board Members, Councillors, and Delegates prior to the November Egg and Pullet Farmers’ Workshop.

 

These tools were put into action as the Board closely monitored and responded to emerging risks to the egg supply. A key tactic was to introduce emergency measures that included modifications to the Market Growth Allowance and a management review of the Special Temporary Market Requirement Quota (STMRQ) and Special Temporary Table Market Quota (STTMQ) programs.

 

With trade discussions and tariff threats changing daily in early 2025, supply management was often a target as a new administration took office to the south. To support the understanding of our unique system that ensures a steady supply of fresh, high-quality Canadian eggs, the Board supported a consumer advocacy campaign initiated by Chicken Farmers of Ontario.

 

To embrace innovation, work on the new Ontario Poultry Research and Innovation Centre continued, with construction set for summer 2026. This centre will become a vital resource for research and consumer outreach. Additionally, we updated programs like theExtended Lay Cycle and Egg Quality initiatives. We also continue to evaluate our policies to ensurethey are fair, relevant, current, and outcome-based. Additionally, we updated programs like the Extended Lay Cycle and Egg Quality initiatives. We also continue to evaluate our policies to ensure they are fair, relevant, current, and outcome-based.

 

I would like to express my thanks to all Ontario egg and pullet farmers for the opportunity to represent you as Chair of this operationally strong organization. I look forward to the great things we can accomplish together.

Two things come to mind as I reflect back on a year that was filled with political turbulence and global instability. The first is the power of positivity and the secondis the willingness to embrace change.