The Minister of Agriculture, the Hon. Cedric Liburd, on Thursday evening held a meeting with crop and livestock farmers to discuss the agricultural diversification activities of his Ministry and to respond to issues of concern to the farmers. The Minister reviewed the non-sugar agricultural activities of his Ministry since taking office and revealed that over 1,000 acres of land have been distributed for farming since the year 2000.
He also indicated that significant growth had been recorded in the cattle industry resulting in a high production level of boneless beef during 2004. He advised the farmers of their critical role following the closure of the sugar industry as he was looking toward non-sugar agriculture playing a pivotal role in economic development.
Several options for expanding non-sugar agriculture were suggested including the development of sugarcane as a feed source for cattle, sheep and goats. Expanding opportunities in the tourism sector to supply locally produced food for visitors were highlighted while hosting of World Cup Cricket in 2007 was identified as a significant opportunity for farmers.
Farmers were given an opportunity to present their areas of concern and the following were submitted.
§ High incidence of crop damage caused by monkeys;
§ Increasing incidence of roaming cattle;
§ High incidence of dog attacks on sheep and goats;
§ Limited access to lands for agriculture;
§ High interest rates of loans for farming;
§ Difficulties with marketing;
§ Unavailability of farm labour.
The Hon. Minister advised the farmers that the Department of Agriculture had developed a plan that would address most of their issues and that the proposal was under consideration for implementation. He also promised the farmers to address the critical issues that relate to land, water and marketing. He ended by thanking the farmers for their support and advised them to take advantage of the current opportunities that exist to expand agriculture in St. Kitts.
