Recognising the need for more research in the local agricultural industry, Dr. Paul Jennings, CEO of the Jamaica Dairy Development Board, has published a new book which is a compendium of research findings and recommendations for improving the local industry.

The publication entitled: Livestock Production in Unfavour-able Economic Environments: Strategies for Attaining Sustained Competitive Advantage was launched last Wednesday and provides readers with insightful information on research findings done over the years on the cattle sector, as well as, an outline of practical tips for improving and sustaining the development of the local agricultural sector and the catttle sub-sector in particular.

The book is the first to be published on the local agricultural sector since the publication of the autobiography: "Cattle and I" by Dr. T.P. Lecky, noted animal scientist and developer of several cattle breeds indigenous to Jamaica.

Speaking with The Gleaner, Dr. Jennings explained that the book was written in an attempt to highlight the prospects and recommend measures for achieving sustainability in the local dairy and beef sub-sectors. He pointed out that the price of milk, for instance, has been steadily increasing over the last five years on the interenational market, thereby increasing the urgency for expansion and development of the dairy industry in Jamaica.

Excellent prospects

Similarly, he said the prospects for the beef industry were excellent in light of the development of large consumption markets such as China where there will be increased demand for meat and other foods.

In publishing the compilation, Dr. Jennings said it would also serve to prompt the policy makers in putting in place the necessary measures and policies to faciliate the development of the beef and dairy sub-sectors.