CFA President Steps Down to Pursue Politics

September 3, 2008- CFA
President Bob Friesen today officially resigned from his position as
President of the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) to pursue a
career in federal politics, announcing his intent to run as a Liberal
candidate in the next federal election.

A former turkey and hog
farmer from Manitoba, Friesen was first elected as CFA President in
1999, having served as Second Vice-President and on the Board of
Directors for years prior.
 
"For nearly a decade, Bob Friesen
has tirelessly served the diverse interests of CFA members and all
Canadian farmers – bringing their concerns, issues and challenges to
the attention of our leaders and working collaboratively with
governments in developing viable solutions," said CFA First
Vice-President Laurent Pellerin.  "Farmers across this country owe him
a great deal of gratitude."
 
"While Bob would be the first to
point out that no one person is the organization, he has certainly
embodied the passion and dedication of the CFA and its members," added
Ron Bonnett, CFA Second Vice-President.  "He will certainly be missed,
but we wish him all the best in his future pursuits."
 
The
leadership duties of the CFA will be shared in the interim by Pellerin
and Bonnett until elections for all three executive officer positions
are held at the CFA Annual General Meeting in February 2009.