Commits to purchasing local beef from abattoir
WIKWEMIKONG—Andy’s Freshmart, a division of the Andy’s Group, is thrilled to announce a commitment to purchasing local beef with the signing of a letter of agreement with the Manitoulin Island Community Abattoir (MICA).
The initiative was advocated through discussions with Wikwemikong Cattlemen, as members of MICA, through the Enaadmaagehjik Wikwemikong Development Commission and Director Birgit Martin of MICA.
Andy’s Freshmart spokesperson James Manitowabi, one of the partners of the family business, noted, “Andy’s Group is committed to supporting the local economy by purchasing beef from local cattlemen. Through MICA we are demonstrating our commitment to buying local and supporting the agricultural sector in our community.”
“Though we cannot meet the demand with our current supply, this initiative sets forth a process where the beef we eat, we know comes from our local cattlemen, if not from Wikwemikong, then across Manitoulin Island,” said economic portfolio holder and Wikwemikong Councillor Lawrence Enosse. “Hopefully, we spur more interest in cattle farming as well as other species.”
Ogimaa Duke Peltier, chief of Wikwemikong, stated, “There is a revitalization of agricultural activities in Wikwemikong. We need to develop the local economy and support family farms. Historically, agriculture was a way of life for many families and we support the buy local initiative being advocated through our development corporation.”
MICA board member and chair Birgit Martin was on hand for the signing of the letter of agreement and agreed that through projections, planning, and working with local cattlemen, “it is this type of marketing and commitment we need to ensure success of the abattoir as well!”
