A local all-candidates debate on agricultural issues was cancelled after not enough of the candidates responded and indicated they would come, the organizer said.

The 91原创 Farmers Institute had planned for a Sept. 16 meeting at George Preston Recreation Centre, said organization chair Amanda Smith.

But she said she was disappointed when most candidates did not confirm they would attend.

The Farmers Institute had no alternate plans to try to find another date for a debate, said Smith. Instead, they would be sending questions to all the candidates and encouraging them to answer. Any responses would be posted on the institute's social media.

Smith noted that the institute will be interacting with whatever candidates are elected in October.

The Farmers Institute was revived a few years ago to give a voice to local farmers and agricultural landowners.

Smith and others with the group have been trying to raise these issues with local and provincial politicians. Their issues range from land and water use policies to problems with stray dogs attacking livestock.

The lack of interest by candidates was disappointing, Smith said.

"Agriculture is being ignored in this election," she said.