Agri industry needs more support
published: Wednesday | September 28, 2005

THE EDITOR, Sir:

THIS IS an open letter to the Minister of Agriculture. Mr. Minister, while Jamaicans try to eke out an existence in a 'top heavy' society, it is important to place considerable emphasis on our ability to feed ourselves. Mr. Minister, can you tell us how much of the food we consume is produced by locals? What are the major drawbacks for producing even adequately for local consumption? Many Jamaicans would like to know if there are benefits to be had from producing our food or if comparative advantage negates such efforts. What is being done to develop a brand for agricultural produce with a strong Jamaican message of the importance in self-sufficiency and some pride?

Mr. Minister, I urge you to lead the way in telling the Jamaican people bluntly that their standard of living is inextricably bound to the support of the local agricultural sector.

Five months ago, I identified some young men willing to work with me in setting up a pig farm. To date I'm still trying to get someone from RADA to give advice and assistance in the technical areas which I believe they are there to provide. I have got the money to start but bureaucracy and laziness is a hindrance. I have now gotten a job overseas and thinking about aborting the project. Sad! More work needs to be done at the local level, as too much ignorance is still enveloped by pay packages tied to time and not productivity. There is a lot of work to do Mr. Minister and we need to talk and walk at the same time.

I am, etc.,

GARNETT WAITE

gjordel@hotmail.com

Springfield, Welcome Hall P.O.

Kensington