Tobacco Settlement Update: July 10, 2026

 As you may be aware, the Board has received funds (the “Funds”) relating to the settlement of a lawsuit against certain tobacco companies (the “Tobacco Companies”). Currently, the Funds are being invested in interest-bearing certificates which will be credited for the benefit of the growers so entitled by adding such interest to the value of the “Make-Up” payments described below.

The totality of the Funds was based on the amount of raw tobacco that the Tobacco Companies purchased via auction as calculated by the Board and based on unpaid “Make-Up” payments owed by the Tobacco Companies under Annual Heads of Agreement. The unpaid “Make-Up” payments occurred between 1990-1995 only and this specific time frame, along with additional criteria, will be used by the Board as the basis to determine a methodology for those persons or companies to be provided a share of the Funds.

In this regard, the Board undertook a process to select a consultant with the necessary experience to develop the framework and model for the equitable distribution of Funds to those who qualify. Grant Thornton Limited has been selected and has begun their work. Further updates will be posted to this website as their work progresses. 

The contact information for Grant Thornton Limited is as follows:

            Grant Thornton Limited

            200 King Street West, Floor 11

            Toronto, ON   M5H 3T4

            Jesse Cooper

            416-360-2364

            Jesse.Cooper@doane.gt.ca

The Board is also reporting regularly to the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission as it proceeds.